Reproductive Ability of Workmen Occupationally Exposed to Lead

TLDR

The study examined 150 lead‑exposed workers, categorizing them into four groups—lead‑poisoned, moderate, slight, and physiologic absorption—using clinical and toxicological assessments. Lead poisoning and moderate lead absorption reduced male fertility, evidenced by higher rates of asthenospermia, hypospermia, and teratospermia, whereas slight or physiologic absorption had no significant effect, suggesting direct gonadal toxicity rather than hypothalamic‑pituitary disruption.

Abstract

The reproductive ability of 150 men occupationally exposed to lead were studied by clinical and toxicological analysis. Subjects were divided into four groups: lead-poisoned workmen (23) and those showing a moderate (42), slight (35), or physiologic absorption (50). Findings show that (1) Lead poisoning as well as moderate increased absorption of lead decrease the fertile ability of men. An increased frequency of asthenospermia, hypospermia, and teratospermia have objectified the decrease. (2) Slight increased or physiologic absorption of lead do not significantly influence the fertile ability of workmen. (3) Hypofertility induced by lead is due, perhaps, to its direct toxic effect on the gonads, as no interference with the hypothalamopituitary axis were evidenced.