Global Study Links Widespread Pesticide Use to Declining Sperm Counts in Food
Widespread use of common insecticides in food, yards, and households has been found to significantly reduce sperm count in men globally, posing a critical public health concern Urgent action required to address this alarming decline
Pesticides utilized in households, gardens, lawns, and on the produce we consume are causing a significant decrease in male sperm count across the globe, as per a recent analysis of studies conducted over the past five decades. Melissa Perry, dean of the College of Public Health at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia and senior author of the study, stated that sperm concentration has decreased by approximately 50% worldwide within a span of 50 years.
are commonly blamed for the decline in sperm concentration, but the exact cause remains unknown, according to Perry. Although other factors may also play a role, our study provides compelling evidence of a significant link between the decline and the use of two commonly used insecticides: organophosphates and N-methyl carbamates.
Organophosphates,
, are extensively utilized compounds worldwide. They serve as essential constituents in nerve gas, herbicides, pesticides, and insecticides, while also finding applications in the production of plastics and solvents.
A farmer spreads pesticide on a field in Centreville, Maryland, on April 25, 2022. (Photo by Jim WATSON / AFP) (Photo by JIM WATSON/AFP via Getty Images)
Jim Watson/AFP/Getty Images
Major food manufacturers receive a failing grade for their contribution to reducing pesticides in food, according to Perry. These chemicals are extensively employed in agriculture for the cultivation of our consumable crops. Additionally, they find application in the construction sector for structural purposes in houses, buildings, and apartments, and even for the maintenance of ornamental lawns. Furthermore, their availability for purchase by consumers indicates a widespread exposure to organophosphates.
N-methyl carbamates share similarities in structure and function with organophosphates, as they both harm the brains and nervous systems of insects, resulting in their death. These compounds are utilized in the production of insecticides, which are applied to various crops including field, fruit, and vegetable crops. Their purpose is to control the population of pests such as beetles, borers, nematodes, weevils, and similar insects. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has provided this information.
Dr. Alexander Pastuszak, an assistant professor of surgery and urology at The University of Utah School of Medicine in Salt Lake City, commented on the potential negative impact of pesticides on fertility. He highlights that these pesticides are emerging as significant contributing factors. However, he was not involved in the recent study.
on male fertility can be attributed to these compounds, as supported by substantial evidence. However, the true extent of their influence on fertility remains uncertain until attempts are made to conceive a child.
The journal Environmental Health Perspectives recently published a study on the two chemicals. Examining a total of 25 studies worldwide, the research included 20 studies in the meta-analysis. This comprehensive analysis explored 42 different levels of impact across 1,774 men in 21 distinct study populations.
Shuttersstock
Sperm counts may be declining globally, review finds, adding to debate over male fertility
The study revealed that men in the agricultural sector, who were extensively exposed to pesticides, had notably lower sperm concentration compared to those with minimal exposure to organophosphates and N-methyl carbamates.
Experts emphasize that sperm count, which indicates the number of sperm in the entire ejaculate, along with the total number of sperm swimming progressively in the semen, are crucial indicators of future fertility.
The study suggests that animal research has provided insights into the potential effects of these pesticides on sperm. It indicates that these substances may directly disrupt sexual hormones, harm cells in the testes, and influence neurotransmitters in the brain that play a role in sperm production.
"Sperm is a highly vulnerable factor for men's overall health," Perry advised. "My top recommendation is to stay mindful of the presence of insecticides in your surroundings and to understand that minimizing unnecessary insecticide exposure is beneficial, particularly if you have aspirations of starting a family and desiring to conceive children."
Be aware of your pesticide exposure around the house and in the food you eat, experts suggest.
Tatiana Maksimova/Moment RF/Getty Images
A concerning public health matter
Beyond pesticides, scientists are investigating the impact of factors like obesity, unhealthy eating habits, chronic illnesses, and the effects of environmental toxins like pollution, PFAS, and other potential harmful substances. In fact, there are even studies examining the possible link between decreased sperm count and radiation emitted by mobile phones.
Natural (top) and synthetic (bottom) embryos to show comparable brain and heart formation
Amadei and Handford
A synthetic embryo, made without sperm or egg, could lead to infertility treatments
According to a recent study, young men aged 18 to 22 who reported using their phones more than 20 times a day had a 21% increased chance of having a low overall sperm count. Additionally, these men had a 30% higher risk of a low sperm concentration. It should be noted that the study did not specify whether the men made phone calls, sent text messages, or utilized both functions on their phones.
Another ongoing concern is the exposure to pesticides in our food. A recent assessment conducted by an advocacy group revealed that major food manufacturers received a collective grade of F for failing to fulfill their promise of reducing pesticide levels in the foods they sell.
"This is indeed a matter of public health," Perry stated. "While it is important to consider individual actions, it is at a larger scale that the population is facing exposure to pesticides and various other factors.
"We must take appropriate measures to minimize insecticide exposure to ensure that men can confidently pursue fatherhood without worrying about potential declines in sperm concentration," she further emphasized.
When it comes to addressing the issue of sperm count, consumers have options to mitigate pesticide exposure through their food choices. Experts suggest that opting for organic foods is an effective approach in reducing pesticide exposure. While organic foods may not offer superior nutrition, they are generally found to contain minimal to zero pesticide residue, as stated by Alexis Temkin, a toxicologist at the Environmental Working Group, a nonprofit organization dedicated to researching and advocating for consumer health, toxic chemicals, and pollutants.
On August 23, 2022, in Montebello, California, a supermarket shopper examines organic produce. As inflation persists, American consumers encounter mounting costs for essential items such as groceries, gasoline, and housing.
Frederic J. Brown/AFP/Getty Images
USDA toughens up regulation of organic products for first time since 1990
"She mentioned in a previous interview with CNN that when someone adopts an organic diet, the presence of pesticides in their urine significantly diminishes at a fast rate. This phenomenon has been observed repeatedly," she stated.
"In cases where organic options are not accessible or too expensive, Temkin strongly advises peeling and thoroughly washing the produce with water," she suggested. "It is best to avoid using detergents or other advertised products. Simply rinsing the produce with water will effectively lower pesticide levels."
The US Food and Drug Administration also provides additional tips on washing produce.
- Wash your hands with warm water and soap for 20 seconds before and after handling fresh produce.
- Prior to peeling, make sure to rinse the produce to prevent the transfer of dirt and bacteria from the knife onto the fruit or vegetable.
- Scrub firm produce such as apples and melons using a clean vegetable brush.
- Use a clean cloth or paper towel to dry the produce, effectively minimizing the presence of bacteria.
Clarification: This story has been updated to clarify the full number of studies examined in the study.
