Sperm crisis: Falling fertility threatens men's future!

Sperm crisis: Falling fertility threatens men's future!

The discussion about male fertility and the so-called “sperm crisis” has become increasingly important in recent years. Numerous international studies show an alarming reduction in the number of sperm cells in men's ejaculate over the last few decades. This development raises questions about the future reproductive ability of the male population and is viewed by experts as a potential threat to the continued existence of humanity. This decline is not only observed in western industrialized nations, but also affects men of all different backgrounds globally.

A steady decline in sperm counts has been faced since the beginning of the 20th century. A major study by Danish epidemiologist Niels Erik Skakkebæk in 1992 documented a decline in average sperm concentration from 113 to 66 million sperm per milliliter. Recent analyzes from 2017 and 2021 expand this picture by finding a decline of more than 50% over the last 40 years. The sperm count has therefore fallen from over 100 million per milliliter to under 50 million, which could have not only health but also social consequences.

Causes of the “sperm crisis”

The causes for the decline in sperm count are varied. Living conditions such as obesity, alcohol and tobacco consumption play a central role and have a lasting impact on the quality of male sperm cells. An unhealthy diet and lack of exercise are also considered significant factors. Environmental chemicals, particularly endocrine disruptors (EDCs), also have negative effects on sperm production. Scientists like Timo Strünker report far-reaching negative effects of these substances on sperm motility.

Interestingly, some recent studies, including the EARTH study, have found that men's physically demanding work correlates with higher sperm concentrations. Men who regularly lift heavy objects show a 46% higher sperm concentration compared to their less active counterparts. An increased level of male sex hormones and a possible conversion of excess testicular hormone into estrogen could play a role, which illustrates the complexity of the issue.

Opinions and perspectives

The scientific community is divided on the final interpretation of the data and trends. Critics of the study results point to the heterogeneity of the data, which makes it difficult to draw clear conclusions. It is argued that the quality of data from older studies showing a decline in sperm count is not always reliable. But many leading epidemiologists, including Shanna Swan and Hagai Levine, express serious concerns that declining sperm counts could threaten the continued existence of the species.

At the same time, it should be noted that not all studies show a consistent decline in sperm counts. Some studies even report increases in certain populations. The WHO regularly publishes sperm quality guidelines to promote consistent diagnosis of male infertility, highlighting the urgent need for further research.

Ultimately, the issue of male fertility is a complex interplay of biological, social and environmental factors that needs to be researched more intensively in order to find effective solutions to the “sperm crisis”. With growing awareness of the issue, new perspectives for male health and reproductive society could also arise.

For more information and details about the studies and research results, see the articles by oe24, spectrum and Medical doctor.