ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS AFFECTING MALE FERTILITY

ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS AFFECTING MALE FERTILITY

                     While climate change plays a significant role in male fertility decline, other environmental factors can also contribute to male-factor infertility. Air pollution and exposure to endocrine disruptors are two key factors worth considering.

Air Pollution and Male Fertility

             The connection between air pollution and male-factor infertility. Elevated air pollution levels have been associated with decreased sperm quality, including reduced motility and abnormal morphology. Couples living in areas with high pollution levels have shown a higher risk of infertility compared to those in low-pollution areas. Air pollutants may also contribute to other adverse reproductive outcomes such as premature birth, low birth weight, and miscarriage.

Endocrine disruptors and male fertility

                Endocrine disruptors are chemicals that interfere with the hormonal system in the body. These chemicals can be found in everyday products such as plastics, pesticides, cosmetics, and food containers. Exposure to endocrine disruptors like biphenyl A (BPA) and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) has been linked to lower testosterone levels, decreased sperm quality, abnormal sperm morphology, and reduced sperm count, viability, and motility. There is also evidence suggesting that exposure to these chemicals may increase the risk of prostate cancer.