Ruinous Effect on Male Reproductive Hormones of Wistar Albino Rats Exposed to Air Freshener

Background: Air fresheners have become indispensible in many living homes and offices, marketed with the promise of creating a clean, healthy, and sweet-smelling indoor atmosphere. Many of these products contain harmful chemicals, hence are of public health significance. This study evaluated the effects of acute exposure to gel air freshener on male reproductive hormones of wistar albino rats.

Aim: This study was designed to examine the effects of exposure to air-freshener on male reproductive hormones of Wistar Albino rats.

Study Design: Eighteen (18) Male wistar albino rats were divided into 6 groups (A-F) and three in each group. Rats in groups B-F were exposed to Air Freshener 194g via inhalation in their cages for 28 days. Rats in group A (control) were not exposed to Air Freshener. At the end of the experiment, rats were sacrificed. Blood samples were collected via cardiac puncture, male reproductive hormones; Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH), Luteinizing Hormone (LH), Testosterone (TET) and Prolactin (PRL) were determined using standard methods.

Results: The results obtained revealed that exposure to air freshener led to an adverse alteration in the levels of the hormones. The serum concentration of FSH and PRL increased significantly at p<0.05, while LH and TET serum concentration were significantly decreased at p<0.05.

Conclusion: This result has revealed that exposure of male wistar albino rats to gel air freshener adversely affected male reproductive hormones, and suggests that it may cause infertility in men.

However, the effect is dependent on the duration of exposure, therefore, the reduction in duration of exposure to air freshener is suggested.