Pesticides, which are chemicals used to kill pests and plant pathogens, negatively affect male fertility by reducing the motility of sperm in seminal fluid. This conclusion was reached by scientists from the College of Public Health at George Mason University (USA). Research results published Environmental Health Perspectives (ENP).
The work of American scientists is based on the results of previous studies examining the effect of pesticides on reproductive ability. In total, the researchers analyzed 20 scientific articles. They sought to find a relationship between sperm concentration and exposure to organophosphates and N-methylcarbamates, two commonly used pesticides. The penetration of pesticides into the human body occurs through the respiratory tract – through the respiratory system, as well as through the gastrointestinal tract and skin.
It turned out that men who were heavily exposed to organophosphates and N-methylcarbamates had reduced sperm motility. As a rule, these were participants who interacted with pesticides at work; Either manual labor or machine disinfestation was generally used to treat substances with substances.
More research is needed to fully understand what processes pesticides trigger that lead to decreased sperm motility. Scientists recommended that men eat more antioxidant-rich foods. Fruits, vegetables and oily fish prevent oxidative damage in human cells. Vitamins C, D, zinc and folic acid may also have a positive effect on sperm quality.
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