Association between occupational group and sperm concentration in infertile men.

The association between infertility and occupational group was examined using information collected from 1695 male patients. Although lack of detail in the nine occupational classifications may have diluted effects, mean sperm concentrations were significantly different, being highest in administrative and professional groups and lowest in farming and transport groups. Reported exposures to heat and chemicals were also significantly different between occupations. Greater occupational exposure to toxins may contribute to lower sperm concentrations in some groups such as farmers. More detailed research is needed to elucidate the association between occupation and infertility in men.