Introduction: Welding fumes are made up of a variety of metal oxides, fumes, and
gases, and many of these metals have been linked to diverse fertility issues. Aim of
Work: To determine the blood levels of metals among welders and to investigate their
impact on male reproductive health. Materials and Methods: The study included
142 male employees in a stainless steel manufacturing facility, wherein 71 welding
workers serve as a vulnerable group and 71 administrative persons served as the control
group. All participants underwent a thorough medical history, a detailed reproductive
questionnaire, including an erectile function test using the international index of
erectile function (IIEF-5), and a full clinical examination. An atomic absorption
spectrophotometer was used to determine blood lead (Pb), serum aluminum (Al),
manganese (Mn), and zinc (Zn) levels. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing
hormone (LH), testosterone, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels were evaluated
using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: The exposed group had a lower
IIEF-5 score, lower libido, and a higher blood Al, Pb, and Mn compared to the control
group. Welders had higher levels of reproductive hormones (FSH and LH) and lower
levels of testosterone and antioxidant enzyme SOD compared to controls. A positive
correlation was detected between the level of Al, Pb, Mn, FSH, LH, age, and duration of
employment among the exposed group, but a negative correlation between Al, Pb, Mn,
testosterone, SOD levels, and IIEF-5. Conclusion and Recommendations: Welders'
metal levels affect reproductive hormones and lead to oxidative stress alterations, both
of which could impair male reproductive health. To reduce exposure to welding fumes,
it is strongly advised to regularly wear high-quality personal protective equipment,
particularly masks and gloves.