Investigator(s)
| Submitter |
Gyem Dorji KGUMSB Gyem Dorji 
|
| Principal Investigator |
Gyem Dorji KGUMSB Gyem Dorji
|
| Co-Investigator(s) |
Sangay Tshering KGUMSB Sangay Tshering
|
| Co-Investigator(s) |
Pema Lhadon JDWNRH Pema Lhadon
|
Title(s) and abstract
| Scientific title | The Effect of Leishmania Infection on Semen Parameters in Bhutanese Men. |
| Public title | The Effect of Leishmania Infection on Semen Parameters in Bhutanese Men. |
| Background | Leishmania infection, caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Leishmania, is a major public health concern globally, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions(1). Bhutan, located in the Himalayan foothills, has experienced sporadic cases of leishmaniasis, raising concerns about its broader health implications(2). While much is known about the systemic effects of Leishmania infection, its impact on male reproductive health, specifically semen quality, remains underexplored. Recent studies in other regions have indicated that parasitic infections can adversely affect semen parameters, potentially leading to subfertility or infertility(3). This proposal aims to investigate the short-term effects of Leishmania infection on semen parameters in Bhutanese men, a topic of both public health and reproductive medicine significance. |
| Objectives | 1. To assess the impact of Leishmania infection on semen parameters in Bhutanese men. 2. To identify correlations between the severity of Leishmania infection and alterations in semen parameters. 3. To compare semen parameters in Leishmania-infected men versus healthy control subjects. |
| Study Methods | A case-control study will be conducted from April 2025 to March 2026. |
| Expected outcomes and use of results | 1. Identification of significant differences in semen parameters between infected and healthy individuals. 2. Insights into the possible reproductive implications of Leishmania infection. 3. Foundational data for further research on the effects of parasitic infections on male fertility. This study will provide valuable insights into the impact of Leishmania infection on male reproductive health in Bhutan, a topic with limited existing research. The findings may guide public health strategies to mitigate reproductive health challenges in affected populations and inform clinical management of Leishmania infections. |
| Keywords | Semen, Leishmania, Infection |
Research Details
| Student research | No |
| Start Date | 01-Apr-2025 |
| End Date | 31-Mar-2026 |
| Key Implementing Institution | KGUMSB |
| Multi-country research | No |
| Nationwide research | Yes |
| Research Domain(s) | Maternal, Reproductive and Child Health |
| Research field(s) | Reproductive Health |
| Involves human subjects | Yes |
| Qualitative Study | |
| Data Collection | Primary data |
| Proposal reviewed by other Committee | No |