Study finds urban air pollution increases male infertility risk in Copenhagen

Exposure to urban air pollution may significantly increase the risk of male infertility, according to a recent study. The research highlights a correlation between air pollution, traffic noise, and fertility issues, indicating that for every increase of 5 micrograms of particulate matter per cubic meter, the risk of male infertility rises by 44%. This risk is markedly higher for men living in urban centers like Copenhagen compared to those in rural areas of North Jutland.

The study analyzed data from over 500,000 men and 370,000 women aged 30 to 45 who lived in Denmark between 2000 and 2017. Researchers calculated air pollution levels at the individuals’ residences over the prior five years, correlating this with statistics from fertility clinics across the country. The findings suggest a linear relationship—the greater the air pollution, the higher the risk of male infertility. Notably, even minimal amounts of air pollution appeared to have an adverse effect, leading researchers to believe there is no definitive safe lower limit.

While a similar connection was not found between air pollution and female infertility, the study did reveal that traffic noise negatively impacts fertility in women over 35, increasing the risk of infertility by 13% with every 10-decibel rise in noise.

Researchers highlighted concerns regarding the potential toxic effects of airborne particles on sperm health, referencing studies that show degrading sperm quality due to pollution exposure. Future research plans aim to track couples undergoing fertility treatment to determine whether those exposed to environmental pollutants experience lower success rates in conceiving.