Association of lifestyle factors like alcohol and tobacco consumption with semen abnormalities

Abstract

Objective: To study the prevalence of semen abnormalities (Teratozoospermia, Asthenozoospermia and Oligozoospermia) amongst cases indulging in alcohol use and tobacco smoking and chewing. Material & Method: This study was carried out in Pathology Department, HIMS, Dehradun. Of the 220 cases reported over a period of 12 month, 30 cases each were selected for control group (A) and study groupsAlcohol users (B), Smokers (C), Tobacco chewers (D) and those with all three addiction (E). Standard protocol as per WHO was used to study various semen parameters. Teratozoospermia was studied by two independent observers. Study groups were compared with controls and data was analysed. Results: Teratozoospermia (T) was the most frequently found variable (n=127/174, 72.8 %). Asthenozoospermia (A) was the second most frequent semen variable (n=113/174, 65.8 %), while oligozoospermia (O) was present in 55.4 % cases (n=97/174). Asthenozoospermia was the most predominant finding in case with gutka addiction (n=21/74), Teratozoospermia was the most predominant finding in case with all three addictions (n=23/79). Conclusion: Lifestyle factors like cigarette smoking and alcohol intake do produce significant negative impact on semen quality.