Authors: Anyanwu M, Suwareh K, Uzokwe V, Dibba F, Sumbunu A, Drammeh R, Njie B, Jarjou A, Conteh ML , Gomez M , Ceesay I, Jahateh C, Mendy D, Okoo M, Donkor S.
Background: Normal semen parameters have shown overwhelming decline in the last 50 years all over the world. The trend of decline is more pronounced in the western region of sub-Saharan African. In view of the rapid deterioration observed in our practice between 2017 (8.9%) and in 2023 (45.4%), we decided to conduct research to explore on possible risk factors.
Methodology: Longitudinal study on semen parameters from January to March 2024. The variables were divided into three thematic areas which includes sociodemographic characteristics, Lifestyle implications and chronic medical/ surgical conditions. Data was entered into a computer database and analyzed with SPSS version 26. Univariable logistic regression analysis of risk factors with test of significance at p-value of <0.05 was performed.
Results: A total number of 104 semen parameters were analyzed. Mean age of the study population was 46 years with a range of 26 to 72 years. The most common age group was 36 to 45 years. Mandinka tribe was the majority and many of them were businessmen. Majority (62%) were of low parity. Atayal and energy drinks (p- value 0.75 and 0.55); Alcohol intake and Jumbo consumption (p-value 0.48 and 0.47), cigarette smoking and Marijuana (0.52 and 0.48) respectively. The sociodemographic characteristics and chronic medical conditions (p-value 0.08-0.82; and 0.36) showed no association with abnormal semen in the study population.
Conclusion: The study showed no significant association of sociodemographic characteristic, lifestyle factors and chronic medical conditions with abnormal semen parameters in the male factor infertility in the Gambia. Further studies are recommended.
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