Semen parameters and exposure risks in military males

Abstract: INTRODUCTION: Military members and veterans have unique environmental and occupational exposures and their influence on reproductive function is unknown. The objective of this study was to describe frequencies of self-reported exposures and associations with semen parameters of men in the U.S. Military Health System (MHS). MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross-sectional, IRB approved study analyzes self-reported exposures and semen analysis parameters of men within the U.S. MHS seeking fertility care. Men with a vasectomy, genetic infertility, and those taking testosterone or human chorionic gonadotropin use were excluded. Demographics, medical history, job description, occupational exposures, and deployment history were collected. Semen analysis parameters were analyzed. Frequencies of patient characteristics were described and compared by abnormal semen parameters with relative risks for abnormality and contingency (mid-p) tests. RESULTS: A total of 291 patients completed the survey and 209 of those had at least one semen analysis parameter available. There was a similar proportion of respondents in the largest military branches: U.S. Army (26.1%), U.S. Navy (21.3%), and U.S. Air Force (14.4%). Representation from officers (35.1%) and enlisted (36.1%) members was comparable. The majority of participants were Caucasian (58.8%) and worked office-based occupations (64.6%). In respondents, tobacco use was significantly associated with abnormal total motile sperm count (relative risk 1.95; confidence interval 1.18-3.20; P = .02). No other significant associations between semen parameters and exposures were noted. CONCLUSIONS: These data highlight the potential impact of occupational exposure on military service members. Though this study identifies a few significant associations between reported exposures and semen parameters, we believe continued research is necessary and encourage predeployment fertility counseling because of potential unidentified risks.