The Open Reproductive Science Journal

2008, 1 : 16-21
Published online 2008 April 23. DOI: 10.2174/1874255600801010016
Publisher ID: TORSJ-1-16

Occupational and Lifestyle Exposures on Male Infertility: A Mini Review

Jorge Ten , Jaime Mendiola , Alberto M. Torres-Cantero , José M. Moreno-Grau , Stella Moreno-Grau , Manuela Roca , Jesús Romero and Rafael Bernabeu
Department of Reproductive Biology. Instituto Bernabeu. Avda. de la Albufereta, 31, 03016 Alicante, Spain.

ABSTRACT

Human semen quality may be declining due to environmental pollutants, occupational exposures or changes in lifestyle. Nonetheless, we still know little about the impact of those factors on male fertility. Some heavy metals, volatile organic compounds or xenoestrogens may compromise reproductive male function. This process could take place along the human life cycle and not only in certain stages of development. We review the main factors that affect human male fertility and their possible influence in current human reproduction.

Keywords:

Male infertility, heavy metals, xenoestrogens.