Journal of Endocrinology and Reproduction

Puja Devi Nongthombam ¹, Suttur S. Malini ¹

Affiliations
1 Molecular Reproduction and Human Genetics Laboratory, Department of Studies in Zoology, University of Mysore, Mysore - 560006, Karnataka, India ., IN

Abstract

Objectives: Exposure to environmental contaminants is a major risk factor for overall human health, including fertility. There has been increasing evidence of association of male infertility with occupational hazards such as heat, chemicals, and radiation. This study aimed to evaluate if certain job engagements and the environment have an impact on seminal characteristics of infertile men. Methods: 327 infertile men engaged in different occupations were divided into two groups: Group 1, who had a high likelihood of being exposed to occupational hazards; and Group 2, whose occupations had less or no hazardous working environment. Semen analysis was performed and the accessory gland function was also evaluated. Results: The farmers outnumbered those from other occupations (102/327). We observed a significantly higher incidence of azoospermia cases (16/39) among factory workers and a two-fold higher odds ratio in Group 1 (OR: 0.27, 95% CI: 0.184, 0.41) compared to Group 2 (OR: 0.14, 95% CI: 0.083, 0.239). Differences in semen parameters such as semen volume, pH, total sperm count, and sperm of normal morphology between the two groups were found to be statistically significant. Construction workers recorded the lowest semen volume and the highest seminal pH, while police personnel and factory workers had the least total sperm count and sperm with normal morphology. Conclusions: This study indicates an association of certain occupations with male infertility. Therefore, it is recommended to take precautionary measures to minimize exposure to workplace-related environmental hazards.

Keywords

Azoospermia, Male Infertility, Occupational Hazards, Semen Parameter, Total Fertility Rate

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K. Lakshmi ¹, Suttur S. Malini ²

Affiliations
1 Department of Studies in Zoology, University of Mysore, Manasagangotri, Mysuru – 570005, Karnataka, IN
2 Department of Studies in Genetics and Genomics, University of Mysore, Manasagangothri, Mysuru, Karnataka, IN

Abstract

Background: Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrinological problem that leads to infertility in reproductive age. It is strongly associated with oxidative stress, which increases the risk of Metabolic Syndrome (Met-S) in women. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between oxidative stress markers and metabolic syndrome parameters in PCOS women. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, we included age-matched 100 control and 150 PCOS (according to Rotterdam criteria). Anthropometric measurements were obtained from each subject. Lipid profile, Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG), and insulin were determined. Serum Malondialdehyde (MDA), Nitric Oxide (NO), and Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) levels are pro-oxidant indicators, while for antioxidant activities, Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), Catalase (CAT), Glutathione (GSH), Vitamin-C (Vit C), and Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC) activity were measured by spectrophotometry. Results: In the PCOS group the SOD, CAT, GSH, Vit C, and TAC activity were significantly low, whereas NO, ROS, and MDA were significantly high (p < 0.05). In the PCOS group, the pro-oxidant MDA showed a negative correlation with HDL and a positive correlation with DBP. The antioxidants SOD and CAT showed a negative correlation with fasting blood glucose and triglycerides. Conclusion: The metabolic syndrome components of PCOS can induce oxidative stress, which is evidenced by a decrease in antioxidant defence mechanisms. It is probably because oxidative stress itself is the consequence of PCOS, more so with Met-S which increases the pro-oxidant state and decreases the anti-oxidant capacity in women.

Keywords

Antioxidants, Metabolic Syndrome, Oxidative Stress, PCOS.

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