A new study published in the BMJ has revealed a concerning link between environmental pollutants and infertility risks. The study found that air pollution is associated with a higher risk of infertility in men, while road traffic noise increases infertility risks for women, especially those over the age of 35.
Researchers analyzed data from over 900,000 men and women aged 30 to 45 living in Denmark between 2000 and 2017. The study aimed to determine whether long-term exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and road traffic noise was linked to infertility in both genders. Infertility diagnoses were recorded from the national patient register, and pollution levels were tracked at participants’ residences over an 18-year period.
The findings showed that men exposed to higher levels of PM2.5—2.9 micrograms per cubic meter above the average over five years—faced a 24% increased risk of infertility. However, PM2.5 pollution did not have a significant impact on female infertility.
In contrast, road traffic noise was a major risk factor for infertility in women. For women over 35, exposure to noise levels 10.2 decibels higher than average over five years was linked to a 14% higher risk of infertility. The study also found a small increased risk of infertility due to noise in men aged between 37 and 45.
Infertility is a growing concern, affecting one in seven couples in the UK trying to conceive. While previous studies have indicated a link between air pollution and sperm quality, the findings have been inconsistent. This large-scale study strengthens the evidence that environmental pollutants, particularly air and noise pollution, may play a significant role in reproductive health.
The researchers noted the implications of their findings, especially in Western countries facing declining birthrates and increasing maternal age. They emphasized the need for further studies to confirm these results, suggesting that policies to reduce air and noise pollution could be vital tools for improving birthrates in the future.