http://www.news4jax.com/technology/3985144/detail.html
Laptops May Harm Men's Fertility
Fertility experts say teenage boys and young men should consider limiting the time that they use laptop computers positioned on their laps, as long-term use may affect their fertility.
Existing evidence shows raising the temperature near the scrotum can cause sperm damage, so researchers at State University of New York at Stony Brook decided to look at the effects of laptops.
Using one increased temperatures more than 2.5 degrees Celsius. Studies say that raising the temperature between 1 and 3 degrees can cause sustained damage to fertility.
"Laptops can reach internal operating temperatures of over 70 degrees Celsius. They are frequently positioned close to the scrotum, and as well as being capable of producing direct local heat, they require the user to sit with his thighs close together to balance the machine, which traps the scrotum between the thighs," said lead researcher Yefim Sheynkin.
Sheynkin said using a laptop could degress sperm generation and concentraion by 40 percent for every degree of heat added.
But, he cautioned, it's not known precisely what the effects will be.
"We don't know the exact frequency and time of heat exposure capable of producing reversible or irreversible changes," he said.
"Until further studies provide more information on this type of thermal exposure," he said, "teenage boys and young men may consider limiting their use of (laptop computers) on their laps, as long-term use may have a detrimental effect on their reproductive health."