Shisha smoking, particularly among heavy users, is associated with higher testosterone levels; however, this effect is accompanied by negative impacts on other critical male reproductive health indicators like semen volume and sperm count.
The Link Between Shisha and Testosterone
Research indicates a clear relationship between shisha smoking and testosterone. Specifically:
- Elevated Levels: Heavy shisha smokers have been found to have significantly higher levels of testosterone compared to those who smoke shisha lightly.
- Positive Correlation: There is a statistically significant positive correlation between an individual's "smoking index" (a measure reflecting the intensity or duration of shisha use) and their testosterone levels. This suggests that as shisha smoking increases, so too do testosterone levels.
Comprehensive Impact on Male Reproductive Health
Despite the observation of increased testosterone, shisha smoking presents detrimental effects on other essential aspects of male reproductive health:
- Decreased Semen Volume: A statistically significant negative correlation exists between the smoking index and semen volume. This means that more intensive shisha use is linked to a reduction in the volume of semen produced.
- Reduced Sperm Count: Similarly, there is a significant negative correlation between the smoking index and sperm count. This indicates that heavy shisha smoking can lead to a lower number of sperm.
To summarize the findings:
| Parameter | Association with Shisha Smoking Intensity |
|---|---|
| Testosterone Levels | Positive Correlation (Higher levels) |
| Semen Volume | Negative Correlation (Lower volume) |
| Sperm Count | Negative Correlation (Lower count) |
Therefore, while shisha use may correlate with higher testosterone levels, it simultaneously shows a negative impact on key indicators of male fertility and overall reproductive function.
