WHO Report: One-Sixth Of The World Population Affected By Infertility

Large numbers of people are affected by infertility in their lifetime, according to a new report published today by WHO. Around 17.5% of the adult population – roughly 1 in 6 worldwide – experience infertility, showing the urgent need to increase access to affordable, high-quality fertility care for those in need.

The new estimates show limited variation in the prevalence of infertility between regions. The rates are comparable for high-, middle- and low-income countries, indicating that this is a major health challenge globally.

Director general’s statement

“The report reveals an important truth: infertility does not discriminate,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

 Director-General at WHO.“The sheer proportion of people affected shows the need to widen access to fertility care and ensure this issue is no longer sidelined in health research and policy so that safe, effective, and affordable ways to attain parenthood are available for those who seek it.”

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About Infertility and its Treatment Cost

It is a disease found in both the male and female reproductive system. It is defined as the failure to achieve a pregnancy after 356 days or more of regular unprotected sexual intercourse. It can cause distress, stigma and financial hardships. This leads to mental illness and psychological well-being.

Despite the magnitude of the issue, Solutions for cure, diagnosis and treatment of infertility including reproductive technology such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) remain underfunded and inaccessible to many due to high costs and limited availability.

Dr Pascale Allotey (Director of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research)at WHO said, “Millions of people face catastrophic healthcare costs after seeking infertility treatment, making this a major equity issue and all too often, a medical poverty trap for those affected,”.

The United Nations Special Programme of Research, Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction (HRP) officials included, “Better policies and public financing can significantly improve access to treatment and protect poorer households from falling into poverty as a result.”

The New report shows convincing evidence of the high global prevalence of infertility, and its highlights a persistent lack of data in many countries and some regions. Fertility care is much needed to reduce the risk.

(Source PTI)