Are pollution, toxins causing rise in common fertility condition?
A concerning increase in endometriosis cases is being reported among women in Delhi, with the 30 to 35 age group being most affected.Experts have estimated that exposure to environmental pollution and bacterial endotoxins are linked to nearly 40% of these new cases in the city.Pollution may be contributing to a rise in several health issues. It is also showing its impact on the reproductive system. Endometriosis is a chronic gynaecological disorder where tissue similar to the endometrial lining grows outside the uterus and is now being linked to the rising levels of air pollution.advertisement
Doctors have said that over almost half of endometriosis cases in Delhi are linked to endotoxins, with environmental pollution also a contributing factor. Endotoxins are toxic substances found in the outer membrane of certain bacteria, especially Gram-negative bacteria.They are released when these bacteria die or multiply. Common sources include contaminated medical equipment, water, or food.WHAT IS ENDOMETRIOSIS? Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterine cavity.As a result, it can cause inflammation, scarring, and even the formation of painful cysts. The signs and symptoms of endometriosis include severe menstrual cramps, chronic pelvic pain, pain during or after intercourse, heavy menstrual bleeding, and digestive issues such as bloating or constipation. In many cases, women also face difficulty conceiving. If left untreated, endometriosis can lead to infertility, ovarian cysts, and adhesions that affect reproductive organs.advertisementBecause symptoms often overlap with other conditions, diagnosis can be delayed, which worsens outcomes for many women.Endometriosis can be triggered by a mix of genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors. Exposure to endotoxins, rising pollution levels, and immune system imbalances are now related to the condition as well.ENDOMETRIOSIS LINKED TO POLLUTION AND ENDOTOXINSMany women suffer for years before getting a diagnosis due to the overlapping nature of its symptoms with other gynaecological and gastrointestinal disorders.In highly polluted cities like Delhi, constant exposure to these hormone-mimicking agents may be compounding women's reproductive health issues, experts said.Dr. Aswati Nair, a fertility specialist at Nova IVF Fertility in Rajouri Garden, stated the alarming rise in endotoxin-related endometriosis cases and pollution levels are aggravators of the condition.
The alarming rise in endotoxin-related endometriosis cases and pollution levels are aggravators of the condition. ()
Just a few years ago, doctors said that cases linked to these factors were much less. "Women in the 30–35 age group are particularly vulnerable, especially those who delay conception. Environmental factors, poor air quality, and increased stress levels are contributing to this surge," said Dr. Nair.advertisementA study, published in the peer-reviewed journal called Frontiers in Microbiology, stated that an unhealthy gut and harmful substances produced by bad bacteria can weaken the gut lining, allowing bacteria and endotoxins to enter the body.This can confuse the immune system, cause inflammation and stress in the body, and raise the risk of developing autoimmune diseases, much like endometriosis.Researchers are still finding out if endometriosis is an autoimmune condition, since it bears significant resemblance to symptoms of some autoimmune diseases.
Researchers are still finding out if endometriosis is an autoimmune condition, since it bears significant resemblance to symptoms of some autoimmune diseases. ()
While there is no known cure for endometriosis, the symptoms can be managed through regular gynaecological check-ups.Lifestyle changes such as adopting a healthy, anti-inflammatory diet, regular exercise, stress management techniques, and medications to control pain and hormone levels are crucial.In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove endometrial tissue.advertisementLimiting exposure to pollutants is also vital. For women with endometriosis who struggle with conception, consulting a fertility expert is essential. Techniques like in vitro fertilisation (IVF), egg freezing, or intrauterine insemination (IUI) may be recommended.
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