RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Association of occupations with decreased semen quality in eastern China: a cross-sectional study of 12 301 semen donors JF BMJ Open JO BMJ Open FD British Medical Journal Publishing Group SP e061354 DO 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-061354 VO 12 IS 8 A1 Tang, Feng A1 Jiang, Zhaoqiang A1 Jin, Mingying A1 Sheng, Huiqiang A1 Feng, Lingfang A1 Chen, Junfei A1 Li, Yongxin A1 Huang, Jing A1 Xu, Ling A1 Lou, Jianlin YR 2022 UL http://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/12/8/e061354.abstract AB Objectives This study aims to examine the association between occupational factors and semen quality in semen donors in eastern China.Methods We recruited 12 301 semen donors from 2006 to 2020 as the studying population. A self-designed questionnaire was applied for collecting lifestyle and work style information. Semen samples were analysed according to WHO guidelines. A crude and adjusted linear regression model was used to analyse the association between occupational factors and semen quality.Results College students accounted for 36.2% of all semen donors. The majority (81.3%) of semen donors were between 18 year and 30 years. Soldiers or the police had the highest semen volume (the median value=3.8 mL), however, they had the lowest sperm concentration (53.6×106/ml) and sperm motility (45.5%). Workers in finance or insurance had an elevated risk of low semen volume, sperm concentration and total sperm count (OR=1.43, 1.57 and 1.98, respectively). Unemployed men had a high risk of low sperm concentration and low total sperm count (OR=1.84 and 1.58, respectively). Working in the information technology industry had a deleterious effect on the progressive motility of sperm (OR=1.27, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.57).Conclusion Our study indicated that sedentary work style and intensive sports in certain professions might be associated with decreased semen quality. We reported evidence of becoming unemployed on the damage to semen quality. Hence, we advocate a healthy work style to improve semen quality in eastern China.Data are available upon reasonable request.