Correlation of Obesity and Serum Vitamin D Levels with Sperm DNA Integrity, Sperm Quality, and Sperm Viability in Normozoospermia Men

BACKGROUND: Obesity, Vitamin D (VD) deficiency, and infertility are important ubiquitous issue; however, the association of obesity and serum VD levels with abnormal sperm is unclear and inconclusive. The current study investigated the correlation of obesity and serum VD levels with sperm DNA integrity and sperm parameters in normozoospermia men. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Semen and blood samples from 64 men were divided into two groups: obese and nonobese men based on body mass index (BMI). Sperm motility and viability were determined by computer-aided sperm analysis and eosin-nigrosin staining. DNA fragmentation, determined by sperm chromatin dispersion method. VD concentrations were assessed by the Elisa technique. RESULTS: Serum concentration of VD levels in the obese group was significantly lower than nonobese men (P < 0.05). Sperm motility was significantly reduced in the obese group in comparison to nonobese (P < 0.05). Rapid progressive motility was statistically lower in obese men compared with the nonobese group (P < 0.05). Sperm count and morphology were not statistically significant in both groups. Sperm viability in the nonobese group was significantly decreased in comparison to obese group (P < 0.05). DNA integrity was significantly higher in the obese group as compared with nonobese (P < 0.01). CONCLUSION: VD deficiency in the obese group showed decreased sperm motility, increased DNA damage, and viability. Adverse consequences of obesity and the possible effect of BMI infertility treatment must be discussed with counseling couples interested in assisted reproductive techniques outcomes, especially in men without any unknown cause.