Süleyman Sagir, Department of Urology, Artuklu University Medical School, Mardin, Turkey
Adem Tunçekin, Department of Urology, Uşak University Medical School, Uşak, Turkey
Objective: In this study, it was aimed to investigate the effects of age, body mass index, and diet factors on sperm parameters and developing a novel index (Artuklu Sperm Quality Index [ASQI]). Method: The study incorporated a total of 115 patients who sought medical attention due to infertility and underwent semen analysis (spermiogram). The ASQI score was developed. Results: About 73% reported eating three meals daily, while 62% consume fruits a few times a week. When considering grain consumption, 30% rarely do, mirroring the 25% who never do. Carbonated drinks are consumed a few times in 15 days by 39% of respondents. Salt consumption showed 47% taking very little, whereas 42% consume caffeine very minimally. Sausage/salami is minimally consumed by 44%, and 32% of participants reported never being exposed to air pollution. ASQI score ranges from 6 to 61 point. A lower score indicates good nutrition and quality of life, while a higher score suggests deteriorating nutrition and increasing unhealthy habits. Cronbach alfa value was noted as 0.72. A negative correlation was found between ASQI and sperm progressive motility (p < 0.001, r = −0.405). Conclusions: This study revealed a clear negative correlation between the ASQI score, which signifies deteriorating nutrition and escalating unhealthy habits, and sperm progressive motility.
Keywords: Sperm. Urology. Fertility. Sperm quality.