Evaluation of Semen Quality among Farmers in Dhamtari District, Chhattisgarh: A Cross-Sectional Study of Occupational and Environmental Impacts

Abstract

Introduction: Occupational and environmental exposures are known to affect male reproductive health. This study aimed to assess semen parameters among farmers from Dhamtari, Chhattisgarh, and identify the prevalence of abnormalities.

Objectives: To evaluate the semen quality and prevalence of abnormalities among farmers in Dhamtari, Chhattisgarh, and to assess the potential impact of occupational and environmental factors on male reproductive health.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 270 farmers between July 2020 and August 2024. Standard semen analysis was performed, evaluating liquefaction time, color, volume, pH, fructose presence, sperm count, motility, morphology, and leucocyte count. Data were statistically analyzed using Chi-square tests, with a significance threshold set at p<0.05.

Results: Significant abnormalities were observed across all evaluated semen parameters. Delayed liquefaction (>40 minutes) was noted in 3.33% of cases, while 41.11% exhibited low semen volume (<1.4 mL). Abnormal sperm count (≤15 million/mL) was found in 18.5% of samples, and poor motility (≤32%) in 28.88%. Abnormal morphology was detected in 59.26% of cases, and leucocytospermia (>1 million/mL) in 14.81%. All deviations from normal standards were statistically significant (p<0.0001).

Conclusions: The findings reveal a high burden of semen abnormalities among farmers, suggesting occupational and environmental factors may impair reproductive health. Early screening, fertility counseling, and interventions addressing occupational risks are recommended to safeguard male fertility in rural populations. Further studies exploring exposure levels and hormonal profiles are warranted.