September 4th, 2024

Air pollution harms male fertility while women face similar risk from noise

A study in the BMJ found air pollution increases infertility risk in men, while noise pollution affects women over 35. Reducing these pollutants may improve fertility rates in western countries.

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Air pollution harms male fertility while women face similar risk from noise

A recent study published in the BMJ has revealed that air pollution negatively impacts male fertility, while women face increased infertility risks due to noise pollution. The research analyzed data from over 900,000 individuals in Denmark, focusing on those aged 30 to 45 who were actively trying to conceive. It found that men exposed to higher levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) had a 24% increased risk of infertility, while women over 35 exposed to elevated road traffic noise experienced a 14% increased risk. Notably, PM2.5 did not show a significant association with infertility in women. The study highlights the importance of understanding environmental factors affecting fertility, especially as many western countries are experiencing declining birth rates and older maternal ages. The researchers suggest that implementing measures to reduce air and noise pollution could be vital for improving fertility rates in these regions.

- Air pollution is linked to a higher risk of infertility in men.

- Women face increased infertility risks from road traffic noise, particularly those over 35.

- The study analyzed data from over 900,000 individuals in Denmark.

- PM2.5 pollution was not associated with infertility in women.

- Findings suggest that reducing environmental pollutants may help improve birth rates.

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By @ggm - 8 months
I'm guessing that for women, the impact on sleep hygiene and the consequence for a cyclical hormone process is why noise levels impact fertility. But I can't entirely understand how PM2 can affect sperm, but not eggs. Maybe other aspects of the egg cycle are net protective?