A large-scale study by Danish scientists has confirmed a direct link between sperm quality and male life expectancy, providing new possibilities for early diagnosis of health risks.
Scientists from the University Hospital of Copenhagen analyzed data from approximately 80,000 men over a 50-year period. The study, led by Dr. Lerke Priscorn and Dr. Niels Jørgensen, examined sperm concentration, ejaculate volume, and the proportion of normal and motile sperm cells. Their findings confirm that sperm quality is not just a marker of fertility but also a significant predictor of longevity.
Men with a total motile sperm count above 120 million were found to live an average of 2.7 years longer than those with less than 5 million. Importantly, this difference remained statistically significant regardless of education level or pre-existing health conditions. “Previous studies have shown that male infertility and poor sperm quality can be associated with mortality,” notes Dr. Priscorn, reinforcing the importance of this research.
The potential mechanism behind this link may involve oxidative stress, which disrupts the balance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body. This imbalance can damage reproductive cells and contribute to broader health problems, such as cardiovascular disease and cancer. Professor John Aitken of the University of Newcastle suggests that oxidative stress may be a key factor connecting poor sperm quality with reduced life expectancy.
These findings highlight the role of sperm analysis in preventive medicine. Since fertility assessments are often performed at a young age, they could serve as an early-warning tool for hidden health risks. Future research aims to explore the relationship between sperm quality and specific causes of death, with a focus on cardiovascular diseases and cancer. The study, published in Human Reproduction, underscores the importance of regular health check-ups for men, making sperm quality assessment a valuable indicator of overall well-being.
