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Radiation effect on male spermatogenesis and fertility – the science and ethical consideration of the Oregon and Washington radiation experiments on prison inmates

Abstract: FRI-16
Sources of Funding: None

Introduction

The post-World War II era witnessed a proliferation of atomic science and an intense interest in radiation hazards to astronauts and pilots in nuclear-powered aircrafts, troops in the fields, and workers in nuclear plants. This became the context for two controversial experiments on the effects of x-ray irradiation on male fertility using human prison inmates. The objective of this study is to review the science and ethics of the medical experimentation on prisoners. _x000D_

Methods

We reviewed primary scientific literature on the two radiation experiments and secondary sources from legal journals and government investigations. _x000D_

Results

Between 1963 to 1973, the Atomic Energy Commission sponsored two studies on the effects of x-ray irradiation on human testicular function using healthy prison inmates at the Washington and the Oregon State Penitentiary. The studies enrolled a total of 165 prisoners who received exposure of 7.5 to 600 rad of radiation to the testes. Inmates in both control and exposure groups underwent period testicular biopsies and weekly seminal fluid examinations to determine the radiation dose that causes azoospermia or complete sterility. Both studies found a transient complete elimination of sperm production at 50 rad. However, at as high as 400 rad exposure, significant return of sperm production was invariably seen. All men were encouraged to undergo vasectomy at the end of the study to prevent possibility of defective offspring; however, eight men refused and some went on to have children with genetic defects. _x000D_ _x000D_ Both studies would have been in violation of federal regulation on permissible medical research in prison population as they exist today. Major ethical issues include coercion and exploitation of prison subjects, informed consent, and financial incentives. Prisoners were not properly counseled on risk of testicular cancer from radiation, in fact, the term cancer was deliberately avoided in the informed consent process.

Conclusions

The Washington and Oregon prison experiments on radiation effects on male spermatogenesis and fertility confirmed profound effect of radiation on testicular function. The result of the studies formed the basis of current limit of radiation exposure and occupation hazard regulation. These two experiments are important case studies not only for their contribution to the urologic knowledge but also for highlighting the interface between science and ethics.

Funding

None

Authors
Hong Truong
James Ryan Mark
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