Association between per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances and semen quality

Area of Science:

• Environmental Health
• Reproductive Toxicology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Inconsistent findings exist regarding the association between perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) exposure and semen quality.
• A precise understanding of this relationship is crucial for public health and male reproductive health.
• Previous studies lacked the statistical power to establish a definitive link.

Approach:

• A comprehensive meta-analysis was conducted, searching major scientific databases for relevant studies published before March 2022.
• Seven studies involving 2190 participants were included, extracting β values and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for meta-analysis.
• Subgroup analyses were performed based on sample size, geographic location, and sample type to refine the findings.

Key Points:

• Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA) exposure showed a significant negative association with sperm progressive motility.
• PFNA exposure was also linked to impaired sperm morphology in studies with over 200 participants.
• These findings highlight specific PFAS compounds and their detrimental effects on key semen parameters.

Conclusions:

• This meta-analysis provides robust evidence supporting an association between certain PFAS (PFOA, PFNA) and reduced semen quality, particularly lower sperm progressive motility.
• The results underscore the potential role of PFAS in male infertility.
• Controlling the use of PFAS is recommended as a preventive measure for male reproductive health issues.