Smartphones Can Now Accurately Test Sperm Count

Low sperm count is one of the primary causes of male infertility, according to the World Health Organization, and the issue has been globally neglected for a very long time. However, researchers are developing smartphone apps that can efficiently detect low sperm count in men.

The Invention of a Rapid Infertility Diagnostic Tool

Researchers from Harvard University have successfully invented a rapid infertility diagnostic tool attached to the smartphone. The attachment itself is compatible with the app created to count the sperm numbers and measure its motility. However, while the researchers from Harvard were not the first team to develop an at-home fertility test for men, they are the first to resolve sperm count in addition to flexibility successfully.

The Simplicity of the Process

The process of testing your sperm count has been made simpler. It now only entails taking small semen and loading it in a disposable microchip. The chip is then placed into a mobile phone attachment through a slot. Eventually, the attachment will turn your phone’s camera into a microscope, which will examine the specimen.

When the sample has been completely loaded and the app starts running, the user will be allowed to see a video of that sample. Additionally, the recording button can be pressed, and the app will subsequently analyze the video, identify sperm cells, and track their movements.

Tracking the Process

Researchers had to make a side-by-side analog of the smartphone sperm tracker with modern lab equipment, and the process involved analyzing over 350 semen samples of both fertile and infertile males. The smartphone app recognition process recorded a 98% system accuracy. The tracking process also involved whether untrained persons with non-scientific knowledge could safely and successfully use the app. According to the researchers, it was confirmed that both trained and the untrained could operate the at-home test app without any hardship.

Developing a Compatible App for iPhone

The cell phone app has only been designed to work with android devices, limiting iPhone users. However, the team is also creating a version that will be compatible with iPhones. The machine will be availed for a lower price for affordability, especially for people in developing nations.

Furthermore, this device is expected to test for male infertility and to help men who have recently undergone a vasectomy. After a vasectomy, scientists always encourage men to undertake a sperm count test to determine if the process was successful.

For the complete production of these apps, manufacturers are waiting for approval from the FDA to begin mass production. If the process is approved, fertility tests for men at home will be easy as an at-home pregnancy test for women.

This development is likely to be welcomed by companies like LexaGene Holdings Inc. (TSX.V: LXG) (OTCQB: LXXGF) who are themselves involved in coming up with novel solutions to health problems afflicting millions around the world.

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