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A study published in the BMJ Journal recently has linked exposure to two common environmental factors — air pollution and road traffic noise — to infertility in men and women.
According to the study, long-term exposure to particulate matter (PM2.5) has a significant impact on male fertility, while women, particularly those above the age of 35, are more affected by prolonged exposure to road traffic noise.
Researchers mentioned, “Among men, we observed that exposure to PM2.5 was associated with a higher risk of infertility, with similar sized hazard ratios in the two investigated age groups (30-36.9 and 37-45 years).”
It further added, “Among women, noise was associated with a higher risk of infertility in the 35-45 age group, whereas no association was observed in the 30-34.9 age group.”
Infertility is already a growing concern globally, with various factors including lifestyle choices, health conditions, and now, environmental factors playing a critical role. This study sheds light on how invisible pollutants can interfere with reproductive health, posing new challenges to both public health and individual well-being.
Dr Suri Raju V, senior consultant urologist at Regal Superspeciality Hospital, Bengaluru, highlights that exposure to PM2.5, tiny particles less than 2.5 micrometres, is increasingly recognised as a significant factor affecting male fertility. These particles, when inhaled, enter the bloodstream and cause harm, primarily by inducing oxidative stress.
PM2.5 contains toxic elements like heavy metals and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that generate reactive oxygen species (ROS). “Excessive ROS can damage sperm DNA, membranes, and impair sperm motility, leading to reduced sperm count and quality. Additionally, PM2.5 can disrupt hormone production, particularly testosterone, further impairing sperm production. It also triggers systemic inflammation, affecting reproductive organs like the testes, contributing to male infertility,” he mentions.
The link between road traffic noise and infertility, particularly in women over 35, highlights the impact of environmental stress on reproductive health, says Dr Suri Raju. Prolonged noise exposure triggers several biological mechanisms that can affect fertility:
Chronic Stress: Continuous noise above 55 decibels activates the stress response, raising cortisol levels, which can disrupt reproductive hormones like oestrogen and progesterone. This may lead to irregular menstrual cycles or conditions like anovulation (absence of ovulation) and amenorrhea (absence of menstruation).
Sleep Disruption: Noise pollution affects sleep, reducing melatonin levels, which are crucial for ovarian function and fertility. For women over 35, this exacerbates age-related fertility decline.
Oxidative Stress and Inflammation: Noise increases oxidative stress and inflammation, potentially harming egg quality and endometrial receptivity. It can also contribute to conditions like endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which impact fertility.
Cardiovascular and Metabolic Effects: Noise pollution is linked to hypertension and metabolic disorders, which affect blood flow to reproductive organs and can lead to fertility issues like PCOS.
With increasing evidence linking environmental pollutants like air pollution and noise to infertility, individuals, particularly those living in urban areas, can take several proactive steps to minimise their exposure, according to Dr Suri Raju:
Air Quality Awareness: Staying informed about the air quality in your area is a crucial first step. On days when the air quality is poor, avoid outdoor activities, especially during peak traffic hours when pollution levels are at their highest.
Indoor Air Quality Management: In addition to using air purifiers, regular ventilation and the use of houseplants known for their air-purifying properties, such as snake plants and peace lilies, can help improve indoor air quality. Regularly cleaning and vacuuming with HEPA-filtered devices can also reduce particulate matter buildup indoors.
Personal Protective Measures: When exposure to high levels of air pollution is unavoidable, such as during commuting, wearing N95 masks can help filter out PM2.5 particles. Using protective eyewear can also reduce irritation from airborne pollutants, which may indirectly affect overall health and well-being.
Noise Reduction Strategies: For those exposed to constant road traffic noise, investing in soundproofing measures at home, such as double-glazed windows, heavy curtains, or soundproof panels, can significantly reduce indoor noise levels. Noise-cancelling headphones or earplugs can be used during sleep or relaxation to minimise noise disturbances.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
