Increase in scrotal temperature in car drivers

Several recent studies have reported a gradual decline in sperm production in men. Endocrine disrupters as well as lifestyle have been suggested as ri sk factors. One lifestyle factor that may affect human fertility is driving a vehicle for a prolonged period. Several authors have suggested that driv ing position may increase the scrotal temperature, In order to validate thi s hypothesis we conducted continuous monitoring of scrotal temperature in r eal conditions, i.e, in men driving a car for a prolonged period, Nine volu nteer men were asked to walk outside for 40 min and then to drive a car for 160 min. Scrotal temperatures were measured from thermocouples and values recorded every 2 min on a portable data recorder. Scrotal temperature incre ased significantly (P < 0.0001) in driving posture after 2 h of driving, re aching a value 1.7-2.2 degrees C higher than that recorded while walking. T his link between driving position and increased scrotal temperature indicat es a potential exposure of male reproductive function to lifestyle factors.