Vol. 7, Issue 1, Part A (2025)

Background: Smoking and substance abuse are known to have adverse effects on male reproductive function. These habits may lead to reduced semen quality, hormonal imbalances and elevated oxidative stress that may impact fertility.

Objective: To find out the effects of smoking and using drugs on semen quality, hormonal levels, oxidative stress markers and male reproductive performance.

Methodology: During the period April to October 2024, three hundred men, 100 smokers, 100 substance abusers and 100 controls were recruited. Sperm shape, motility and count and viability were measured from semen samples. To approximate testosterone, FSH, LH and prolactin levels blood samples were taken. Sperm oxidative stress indicators MDA, SOD and glutathione were also calculated. The study was conducted in a private outpatient clinic and Tikrit Teaching Hospital.

Results: sperm count, motility, morphology and viability were all worse comparatively to the control group in both smokers and drug users. The affected groups had low testosterone and high FSH, LH and prolactin and other hormonal abnormalities. Oxidative stress indicators were higher in smokes and drug addicts.

Conclusion: smoking and drug use deteriorate male reproductive health by impairing semen quality, hormonal control and boosting oxidative stress. These results also show why health education campaigns should be aimed at preventing people from smoking and using drugs in order to protect male fertility.