Science Weekly
‘Spermageddon’: is male fertility really in crisis?
Jul 4, 2024
The guest, Nicola Davis, discusses the global reproductive crisis and the conflicting studies on declining sperm counts. They explore potential causes like genetic conditions, lifestyle factors, and microplastic contamination. The podcast emphasizes the need for continued research on male fertility.
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Quick takeaways
- Recent studies indicate a more than 50% decline in human sperm counts over 40 years, raising concerns about male fertility crisis.
- Factors contributing to male fertility decline include genetic conditions, environmental exposure, and presence of microplastics in semen.
Deep dives
Declining Sperm Counts and Quality
Recent studies have indicated a significant decline in human sperm counts and quality over the past few decades. Meta-analyses published in 2017 and 2022 revealed a more than 50% reduction in sperm concentrations and total sperm counts, sparking concerns about male fertility. Concurrent studies in dogs also showed a decline in sperm quality. While some debate exists among scientists regarding the extent of the crisis in male fertility, the evidence suggests a worrying trend.
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