Liang-Sien Chen , Hung-Keng Wu , Wen-Hsin Chang , Wei-Chu Wang , Chyi-Huey Bai
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Objective
Infertility affects a large portion of the global population, with environmental, lifestyle, and biological factors contributing to its incidence. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are widely used in consumer products, and are considered environmental pollutants and are associated with various adverse health outcomes. However, their impact on female fertility remains unclear. This study investigated the relation between urinary VOC metabolite levels and infertility in women.
Materials and methods
This cross-sectional analysis utilized data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) for the years 2013–2018. Female participants 18–45 years old with reproductive health data were included. Infertility status was determined through questionnaire responses, and urinary VOC metabolite levels were obtained from the NHANES laboratory data. The associations between VOC levels and infertility were assessed through univariate and multivariable regression analyses.
Results
Of the 29,400 female participants in the NHANES data set, 1097 women met the inclusion criteria. Multivariable analysis adjusted for confounders showed significant associations between 12 specific VOC metabolites and an increased likelihood of infertility, with N-Acetyl-S-(3,4-dihydroxybutyl)-l-cysteine (DHBMA) (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.48, 95 % confidence interval [CI]: 1.04–2.12, p = 0.030) and N-Acetyl-S-(2-hydroxypropyl)-l-cysteine (2HPMA) (aOR = 1.41, 95 % CI:1.07–1.85, p = 0.016) showing the strongest associations.
Conclusions
Our study highlights a significant association between specific urinary VOC metabolites and an increased likelihood of infertility in women. While causality cannot be conclusively determined, the findings offer an initial insight into the reproductive health risks linked to VOC exposure.
期刊介绍:
Taiwanese Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology is a peer-reviewed journal and open access publishing editorials, reviews, original articles, short communications, case reports, research letters, correspondence and letters to the editor in the field of obstetrics and gynecology.
The aims of the journal are to:
1.Publish cutting-edge, innovative and topical research that addresses screening, diagnosis, management and care in women''s health
2.Deliver evidence-based information
3.Promote the sharing of clinical experience
4.Address women-related health promotion
The journal provides comprehensive coverage of topics in obstetrics & gynecology and women''s health including maternal-fetal medicine, reproductive endocrinology/infertility, and gynecologic oncology. Taiwan Association of Obstetrics and Gynecology.