U of M professor, global experts unite for action on male infertility crisis

MINNEAPOLIS/ST. PAUL (10/12/2023) — Published in Nature Reviews Urology, a team of international experts, including an adjunct professor at the University of Minnesota Medical School, is urging governments and health systems worldwide to recognize male infertility as a growing global health concern. In general, infertility affects one in six couples of reproductive age, with males contributing to infertility in about half of cases. 

“The most visible male reproductive health concern is reports of globally declining sperm counts. Possible causes for the decline include environmental and lifestyle factors and poorer quality sperm associated with advanced paternal age. These factors and others can contribute to or cause male infertility. All the more concerning is emerging data that suggests male reproductive ill-health as a ‘canary in the coalmine’ for overall health, such as metabolic and cardiovascular disease,” said Christopher De Jonge, PhD, an adjunct professor in the Department of Urology at the U of M Medical School and co-founder of Male Reproductive Health Initiative (MRHI).

The report presents 10 recommendations based on consensus from leading scientists across the globe. It emphasizes the need for accessible diagnoses and targeted treatments, which are currently hindered by funding shortages, research gaps and inconsistent clinical practices.

The report recommendations include:

• Create a global "biobank" for data on genetic and environmental causes of infertility.
• Provide genomic sequencing and improved diagnostic tests for men facing fertility challenges.
• Conduct rigorous tests on the impacts of chemicals, especially endocrine-disrupting ones, on male reproductive health.
• Establish regulations and policies to protect men from harmful compounds and develop safe alternatives.
• Enhance training for healthcare workers to support male reproductive health throughout life.

Commissioned by the MRHI, the report draws on insights from 26 experts across Australia, Argentina, Canada, China, Denmark, Germany, Italy, Spain, the U.K. and the U.S. It identifies crucial knowledge gaps and offers a roadmap for researchers, governments, healthcare systems and public education.

“Much more research is required to develop improved diagnostic testing and therapeutic strategies, which requires funding. However, despite the World Health Organization and the American Medical Association recognizing infertility as a disease, research funding levels for female and male reproduction are vastly lower than for other diseases,” Dr. De Jonge said. “Advocacy for increased funding could ultimately contribute to healthier families and communities.”

The next steps are to further disseminate the recommendations in the report to all stakeholders, including legislators, insurance companies, funding agencies and social networks. According to Dr. De Jonge, research networks, such as the Genetics of Male Infertility Initiative consortium and COST/Andronet, have emerged and will be crucial to advancing basic and clinical research.

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