Occupation and Semen Parameters in a Cohort of Fertile Men

Abstract

Objective We examined associations between occupation and semen parameters in demonstrably fertile men in the Study for Future Families. Methods Associations of occupation and workplace exposures with semen volume, sperm concentration, motility, and morphology were assessed using generalized linear modeling. Results Lower sperm concentration and motility were seen in installation, maintenance, and repair occupations. Higher exposure to lead, and to other toxicants, was seen in occupations with lower mean sperm concentrations (prevalence ratio for lead: 4.1; pesticides/insecticides: 1.6; solvents: 1.4). Working with lead for more than 3 months was associated with lower sperm concentration, as was lead exposure outside of work. Conclusions We found evidence in demonstrably fertile men for reduced sperm quality with lead, pesticide/herbicide, and solvent exposure. These results may identify occupations where protective measures against male reproductive toxicity might be warranted.