Impacts of cancer therapy on male fertility: Past and present

Kathleen Duffin, Rod T. Mitchell, Mark F.H. Brougham, Geert Hamer, Ans M.M. Van pelt*, Callista L. Mulder*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract / Description of output

Over the past two decades, advances in cancer therapy have significantly improved survival rates, particularly in childhood cancers. Still, many treatments pose a substantial risk for diminishing future fertility potential due to the gonadotoxic nature of many cancer regimens, justifying fertility preservation programs for both childhood and adult cancer patients. To assure a balance between offering fertility preservation and actual chance of infertility post-treatment, guidelines are in place. However, assessing the actual risk of infertility after treatment remains challenging, given the multi-faceted approach of many cancer treatment plans, which are continuously evolving. This review discusses the evolution of cancer therapy over the past 20 years and attempts to assess their impact on fertility after treatment. Overall, cancer regimens have shifted from broadly killing fast dividing cells to more targeting therapies, reducing collateral damage in general. Although progress has been made to reduce overall toxicity, unfortunately this does not automatically translate to reduced gonadotoxicity. Therefore, current fertility preservation programs continue to be an important part of cancer care.
Original languageEnglish
Article number101308
JournalMolecular Aspects of Medicine
Volume100
Early online date11 Sept 2024
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Dec 2024

Keywords / Materials (for Non-textual outputs)

  • Cancer therapy
  • Chemotherapy
  • Radiation
  • Gonadotoxicity
  • Spermatogenesis
  • Fertility preservation

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