ASSOCIATION BETWEEN MALE INFERTILITY AND PROSTATE CANCER: A NARRATIVE REVIEW
Mario Henrique Bitar Siqueira
Abstract
Objective: This review examines the emerging link between male infertility and prostate cancer (PCa), highlighting underlying biological mechanisms and relevant clinical considerations. Methods: A narrative review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases. The search included the terms “infertility,” “prostatic neoplasm,” and “sperm count,” targeting studies published between 2015 and 2024 in English, Spanish, and Portuguese. After screening, 15 articles were selected for inclusion based on relevance and quality Results: Emerging evidence supports a biological connection between prostate function and male fertility, particularly through zinc-dependent pathways essential for maintaining seminal plasma composition. Disruptions in prostate health—such as malignancy— may adversely impact semen quality. Studies have reported elevated PSA levels and compromised sperm parameters in infertile men, particularly those under 40. Moreover, large cohort studies indicate that men undergoing assisted reproductive technologies (e.g., IVF or ICSI) may be at increased risk of developing prostate cancer at a younger age compared to their fertile counterparts. Conclusion: While the association between male infertility and prostate cancer remains inconclusive, it is biologically plausible. Additional longitudinal and mechanistic studies are necessary to better elucidate this relationship and support the development of future clinical guidelines.
Keywords
References
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Submitted date:
11/27/2024
Accepted date:
04/09/2025
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