Effects of Air Pollution on Semen Quality: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Conclusions about the effect of air pollution on semen quality are not uniform, and there is a lack of large-scale studies.

Methods: We analyzed 1230 male semen samples and assessed semen quality parameters. Logistic analysis was performed on the air quality indicators and semen quality parameters of the three critical periods of sperm development and the entire exposure period to determine the air pollution with significant differences and to find the sensitive period.

Results: During the 0–90 days exposure period, every unit of PM₁₀ increase was associated with a 98% increase in abnormal semen pH. During the 0–9 day exposure period, every unit of SO₂ increase was associated with an 18% increase in abnormal semen routine and a 38% increase in abnormal semen pH; for each unit of CO increase, the abnormal pH increased by 24%. During the 10–14 days exposure period, every unit increase in PM_2.5 was associated with a 245% increase in abnormal semen volume; each unit increase in SO₂ increased the abnormal semen pH by 40%. During the 70–90 days exposure period, every unit of PM_2.5 increase was associated with a 90% increase in abnormal semen pH.

Conclusion: Air pollution is associated with semen quality and can affect the entire stage of sperm production, with SO₂ and PM_2.5 exposure being particularly impactful. Air pollution is particularly sensitive to sperm storage periods (0–9 days before ejaculation).