Impact on Fertility Outcomes in Survivors after Oncological Treatment of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Fertility problems affect one-third of male cancer survivors after treatment, highlighting the importance of counseling and fertility preservation before therapy begins.
This first meta-analysis dedicated to fertility outcomes after NHL treatment synthesized 51 studies and found that 27% of survivors expected infertility, with male patients (35%) more affected than females (23%). The highest infertility rates occurred after alkylating agents plus pelvic radiation and BMT (up to 57% in males), but heterogeneous reporting underscored the urgent need for prospective regimen-stratified studies.
What the study was
- Study design
- Systematic review and meta-analysis (51 studies)
- Population
- NHL survivors post-treatment; mixed regimens
- Category
- Prevention
- Maturity
- Validated
- Journal
- Journal of Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology
Why it surfaced
First dedicated meta-analysis on this topic; relevant for counseling younger NHL patients where fertility preservation is an underaddressed survivorship concern. Broad heterogeneity of included studies limits precise guidance.
A plain-language summary of published research — not medical advice. Talk to a clinician about your own care.