Cryptorchidism and Hypospadias (Feasibility Study for a Register)

This study is investigating the epidemiology of cryptorchidism and hypospadias in the Northern Region of England.  It aims to identify the common associated risk factors using a retrospective cohort design study.  The prevalence of these abnormalities in the region will be described and possible associations with factors operating during the prenatal period of life that may pre-dispose a child to mal-descention of the testes and mal-development of the penis will be investigated.

Specifically, the investigation will cover:

a)
i.    The prevalence rate (cryptorchidism will be desribed as orchiodpexy rate)
ii.   The geographical distribution
iii.  Time-space clustering
iv.   Spatial temporal trend
v.    Seasonal variation

b)  To determine the association with certain maternal risk factors: maternal age at birth of the cryptorchid child, parity , occupation, blood group and rhesus status, other associated medical and obstetric complications and prenatal exposure to steroids and socio-economic status.

c)  To study the association of fetal factors which affects the descent of the testis: birth order, birth weight and fetal maturity.

d)  To determine the association with other types of congenital abnormalities and chromosomal abnormalities.

e)  To determine the common types of cryptorchidism and hypospadias as defined by class.