The decline in male fertility is a pressing concern that warrants serious attention. Studies have suggested that sperm counts have plummeted by over 50 per cent in the past four decades, with the trend showing no signs of slowing down. Though the causes of this decline vary, a new study has revealed high-altitude hiking, and sleep apnoea among other conditions that can deprive a man's testes of oxygen, contributing to a decline in fertility over the past 50 years.
The study published in the Nature Reviews Urology journal, reveals how exposure to low oxygen levels can impact sperm quality and the overall reproductive health of men.
Experts have revealed that 'testis hypoxia' is a condition that could be critical to declining male fertility.
There is infertility and sub-fertility in men. Infertility refers to the inability to achieve pregnancy after at least 12 months of regular unprotected sex. However, sub-fertility is a less intense situation, where the chances of conceiving are lowered.
What is testis hypoxia?
Testis hypoxia refers to a condition where the testicles are experiencing a lack of oxygen.
According to Tessa Lord, a reproductive biologist, testis hypoxia is caused by chronic medical conditions including sleep apnoea or varicocele (enlarged veins in the scrotum).
Up to 45 per cent of men struggle to conceive due to varicocele, Lord was quoted by PTI.
Other factors affecting male fertility
Medical factors include:
Low sperm count - Having fewer than 1.5 million sperm per millilitre of semen.
Poor sperm mobility - Sperm that do not move properly or are slow
Abnormal sperm morphology - Sperm with irregular shape or structure
Hypogonadism - Low testosterone levels
Epididymitis - Inflammation of epididymis
Prostatitis - Inflammation of the prostate gland
Lifestyle factors include:
Smoking
Excessive alcohol consumption
Obesity
Stress
Poor diet
Lack of exercise
