Journal or Publishing Institution: Reproductive Toxicology
Date of Publication: 12/17/1999
Author(s): Arbuckle, T.E., Schrader, S.M., Cole, D., Hall, J.C., Bancej, C.M., Turner, L.A., and Claman, P.
Article Type: Peer Reviewed Study
Abstract:
Although paternal exposures to environmental toxicants probably play a role in adverse pregnancy outcomes, few data are available on the extent of this exposure. One semen and two 24-h urine samples were collected from 97 Ontario farmers who had recently used the phenoxy herbicides 2,4-D (2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid) and/or MCPA ([4-chloro-2-methylphenoxy] acetic acid). Both samples were analyzed for 2,4-D using an immunoassay-based technique. Approximately 50% of the semen samples had detectable levels of 2,4-D (≥5.0 ppb (ng/mL)). Semen levels of 2,4-D were correlated more closely with the second of the two urine samples. Although several studies have measured 2,4-D in the urine of applicators, this study is the first to attempt to measure 2,4-D levels in semen. As these pesticides can be excreted in the semen, they could be toxic to sperm cells and be transported to the woman and developing embryo/fetus. Further research is needed to understand how pesticide handling practices can affect semen pesticide residues and the relationship between the levels observed and reproductive health.
Keywords: semen, sperm, 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D), herbicides, pesticides, urine, occupational exposure, pesticide exposure, agriculture, farmers, biomonitoring, Canada, reproductive toxicity, reproductive health, human health, health risks, biosafety
Citation:
Arbuckle, T.E., Schrader, S.M., Cole, D., Hall, J.C., Bancej, C.M., Turner, L.A., and Claman, P., 1999. 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid residues in semen of Ontario farmers. Reproductive Toxicology, 1999, 13(6), pp.421-9.
Category:
- Health effects
- Pesticide use
Record ID: 71
