Impact of air pollution on reproductive health

Can air pollution cause infertility?

Air pollution is one of the most serious environmental problems of our time, as it has a negative impact on human health. In this regard, Chinese scientists decided to study its possible impact on reproductive function. The results of their work, published in the scientific journal Environmental International, confirmed the existence of a link between air pollution and an increased risk of infertility.

The study and its results

The study focused on 10,211 couples living in eight different Chinese provinces. The scientists analyzed the air quality where they lived, focusing on the concentration of fine particles (PM_2.5), which are associated with emissions from cars and industry.

The researchers studied the effects of these microscopic particles on the bodies of men and women over one, three, and five years, analyzing the levels of PM_2.5 where they lived and comparing them with fertility rates. To do this, they used air quality data provided by monitoring stations, as well as medical examinations of the participants, including sperm analysis and ovarian function. It turned out that for every increase of 10 µg/meter cubic in atmospheric concentrations of PM_2.5, the probability of infertility increased by 20%.

Most participants in the study lived in areas where PM_2.5 concentrations reached 57 µg/meter cubic, which is well above the limit of 5 µg/meter cubic recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) to protect public health. For example, the average level of these particles in British air is only 10 to 15 µg/meter cubic, which is significantly lower than the level in China.

Link between air pollution and reproductive issues

This scientific article is far from the first to establish a link between air quality and reproductive health. Previous studies conducted in Europe and the United States have also highlighted similar correlations, particularly the effect of air pollution on reduced sperm motility, decreased numbers of viable eggs, and increased rates of miscarriage. Some documents emphasize that prolonged exposure to air pollution can lead to endocrine disruption affecting fertility. For example, a recent American study involving 600 individuals with fertility issues found that high levels of air pollution can lead to decreased sperm quality in men, as well as a reduction in the number of eggs maturing in women.

Effects of air pollution on IVF

Air pollution can also affect the outcomes of assisted reproductive techniques such as in vitro fertilization (IVF). Studies show that women exposed to high levels of pollutants for long periods may have lower rates of successful embryo implantation. In cases of IVF with egg donation and IVF with double donation, where both sperm and eggs from a donor are used, the risk of procedure failure may also increase due to the effects of air pollution on the endometrium and the hormonal balance of the body.

Ways to address the problem

Data from numerous studies confirm that environmental pollution has a negative impact on human reproductive health, increasing the likelihood of conception issues. This fact underscores the importance of comprehensive measures aimed at reducing emissions and improving air quality, especially in densely populated areas and industrial zones.

An effective solution is to transition to clean energy sources, such as solar and wind energy, and to implement stricter emission standards for industrial facilities and vehicles. Some countries have already successfully implemented programs aimed at making cities greener, improving air filtration systems, and encouraging the use of public transport and electric vehicles. Implementing such measures globally could significantly reduce pollution and its negative impact on public health.