Evaluation of reproductive function of female rats exposed to radiofrequency fields (27.12 MHz) near a shortwave diathermy device.
In recent years, there has been increased concern regarding effects of operator exposure to the electromagnetic (EM) field associated with shortwave diathermy devices. The present study was designed to investigate the effects, on rats, of repeated exposure to such an EM field. Following repeated exposure for 5 wk, a reduction in fertility occurred as indicated by a reduced number of matings in exposed rats compared to sham-irradiated rats and a reduction in the number of rats that conceived after mating. The data suggest that female operators could experience reduced fertility, if they remained close to the console for prolonged periods. This has particular significant for the physiotherapy profession.
Brown-Woodman
P D
PD
Department of Biological Sciences, Cumberland College of Health Sciences, Lidcombe, Australia.
Hadley
J A
JA
Richardson
L
L
Bright
D
D
Porter
D
D
D000818:Animals; D001724:Birth Weight / Q000528:radiation effects; D003972:Diathermy / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000295:instrumentation*; D005260:Female; D005298:Fertility / Q000528:radiation effects; D008098:Litter Size / Q000528:radiation effects; D011247:Pregnancy; D011846:Radio Waves / Q000009:adverse effects*; D051381:Rats; D011919:Rats, Inbred Strains; D012098:Reproduction / Q000528:radiation effects*