Abstract
Several environmental substances and pesticides exert a direct, cytotoxic effect on
male germ cells. However, an increasing concern has been raised by compounds that
may act through more subtle mechanisms, for example, specific pesticides that are
potentially capable of modulating or disrupting the endocrine system. Overall, exposure
to pesticides with endocrine-disrupting potential raise a particular concern for male
fertility because of the possible occurrence of both effects at low concentrations
and additive interactions with other environmental risk factors. Delayed reproductive
problems deserve special attention, since experimental data consistently indicate
a high vulnerability in the developing male reproductive system. Epidemiologic studies
have confirmed an increased risk of conception delay associated with occupational
exposure to pesticides. Moreover, an increased risk of spontaneous abortion has been
noted among wives of exposed workers.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Accepted:
January 7,
2002
Received in revised form:
January 7,
2002
Received:
November 15,
2001
Identification
Copyright
© 2002 Elsevier Science Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
