Male reproductive function in workers exposed to vibration

Cent Eur J Public Health. 1996 Sep;4(3):185-8.

Abstract

Male infertility is a significant health problem. Increasing attention has been paid to the use of semen analysis as an indicator of exposure to potential reproductive hazards. The aim of the current paper was to study the effects of vibrations on the spermatogenesis in workers of different occupational groups (professional drivers, miners, engine drivers, etc.). Semen samples were analyzed for pH, volume, turbidity, sperm density sperm count and sperm morphology. Workers had an increased prevalence of oligospermia and azoospermia. The semen volume and percentage of motile spermatozoa decreased significantly and the incidence of sperm malformation increased in exposed workers.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Automobile Driving
  • Humans
  • Infertility, Male / etiology*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Mining*
  • Occupational Exposure / adverse effects*
  • Oligospermia / etiology
  • Spermatogenesis*
  • Vibration / adverse effects*