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Journal of Human Reproductive Sciences logoLink to Journal of Human Reproductive Sciences
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. 2011 May-Aug;4(2):103–104. doi: 10.4103/0974-1208.86095

Nuclear detonation and infertility: Evidence

Viroj Wiwanitkit 1,
PMCID: PMC3205533  PMID: 22065709

Sir,

The present global public health discussion is on the nuclear denotation originating in Japan after the destruction of nuclear electricity plant as a result of tsunami in March. The effect on reproductive system after the exposure to the radioactive contamination from nuclear is an interesting topic to be discussed. The observation on the infertility and relationship to nuclear detonation is of interest. Referring to the well-known documented nuclear leakage problem in 1986 in Russia, the infertility after exposure is mentioned.[1,2] The identified infertility condition is reported to be a non–dosage-related phenomenon.[2] It is proposed that the alteration of the antioxidative system in the affected population is the main pathogenesis leading to infertility.[3] Poor quality of the semen in the subjects exposed to the radiation can be observed.[4] Change in sperm count and ultrastructure of spermatozoa, especially at head are important findings.[4,5] In addition to pathologic changes in semen, abnormal ultrasound finding demonstrating alterations in prostate and seminal vesicles similar to chronic prostatitis and vesiculitis was also reported.[6] Hence, the closed observation on the consequence of the present disaster is recommended and the infertility should be a focus in following up of case exposure to the nuclear detonation.

REFERENCES

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