In 1992, a Danish group led by Skakkebaek reported in a meta-analysis that global mean sperm counts were falling and that testicular cancer, hypospadias and cryptorchidism were increasing. They hypothesized that environmental factors were the cause. Their meta-analysis was criticized subsequently for many methodological flaws. However, their controversial meta-analysis and hypothesis spurred public and scientific interest in the study of male reproductive function and stimulated more rigorous scientific work in the area. Subsequent research has not convincingly supported their hypothesis. However, it is crucial to continue high quality studies of the effects of drugs and man-made pollutants on male reproductive function.

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