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Can semen analysis be utilized as a screening tool for overall health in young men?

International Journal of Impotence Research (2024)Cite this article

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Abstract

Traditionally, semen analysis has been viewed solely as a tool for assessing male fertility. However, emerging research suggests that abnormal semen parameters may serve as indicators of broader health issues beyond reproductive function. Studies have revealed significant associations between abnormal semen parameters and an increased risk of chronic diseases such as prostate cancer, diabetes, ischemic heart disease, and metabolic disorders. These findings challenge the conventional understanding and position semen analysis as a potential screening tool for overall male health. The correlation between abnormal semen parameters and conditions like erectile dysfunction further underscores the multifaceted implications of semen quality. This suggests that abnormal semen parameters may be a risk factor for poorer overall health and a higher likelihood of developing comorbidities over time. Given these compelling associations, there is a growing call to integrate semen analysis into routine health assessments for young men, particularly in conjunction with established general health screenings. This proactive approach aligns with a preventative healthcare paradigm, facilitating early detection of underlying health concerns and timely interventions. However, overcoming cultural, logistical, and cost-related barriers is crucial for the successful implementation of this shift in reproductive health.

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Fig. 1: Visual representation of semen analysis as a “window” into general health.

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Acknowledgements

We would like to express our deepest gratitude to the following individuals and organizations for their invaluable contributions to this manuscript. Dr. Mohit Khera at the Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, and Dr. Nathan Starke at the Department of Urology, Houston Methodist Hospital for their insightful guidance and constructive feedback throughout the research process. We would also like to thank IJIR: Your Sexual Medicine Journal and its editorial team for considering our manuscript for publication and for their dedication to advancing research in the field of urology and sexual medicine.

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No funding was received for this research.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA

    Gal Saffati & Mohit Khera

  2. Department of Urology, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, TX, USA

    Laura N. Thompson, Nathan Starke & Akhil Muthigi

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  1. Gal Saffati
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Contributions

GS: Writing- Original draft preparation, LNT: Writing- Original draft preparation, NS: Writing- Reviewing and Editing, MK: Writing- Reviewing and Editing, AK: Conceptualization, Writing- Reviewing and Editing.

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Correspondence to Gal Saffati.

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Saffati, G., Thompson, L.N., Starke, N. et al. Can semen analysis be utilized as a screening tool for overall health in young men?. Int J Impot Res (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41443-024-00949-9

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