The Effect of Environmental Tobacco Smoke on the Testicular Functions of 7-10 Years Old Children

Abstract

Purpose: To investigate the effect of environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) on the testicle functions of 7-10 years old children. Materials and Methods: The study included healthy male children aging between 7-10 years. Based on the questionnaire data, 50 passive smoking (PS) cases and 50 passive smoking free controls were determined. Serum levels of cotinine, and biochemical parameters of the testicle functions; testosterone, inhibin B, anti-mullerian hormone (AMH) along with FSH and LH levels were evaluated. Results: Serum cotinine levels in PS group were found higher than the controls (p<0,05). Testosterone, inhibin-B, FSH, and LH levels of the control group was found higher than the PS group. The AMH levels were found lower in the controls in comparison with the PS group (p<0,05). Conclusions: Our results showed that ETS leads to testicular dysfuntions. We think that preventing exposure to cigarette smoke in childhood is very important for their reproductive system.