To investigate whether environmentally associated stress may contribute to the development of coxarthrosis, 85 males with primary coxarthrosis and 262 male urological patients were questioned about their occupation, and their hips were graded radiologically. Patients with coxarthrosis had been more frequently exposed to heavy labour, heavy lifting, and much tractor driving. Our results indicate that environmentally associated stress, as reflected by a varied life style or occupation, may contribute to the development of coxarthrosis.