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Time of India
03-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
RFK Jr.'s alarming claims on sperm counts and male fertility spark debate—experts urge caution
U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has ignited a nationwide debate after issuing stark warnings about declining testosterone and sperm counts among American boys and young men. Kennedy's claims—delivered in recent interviews and public appearances—have fueled doomsday predictions about a looming 'male fertility crisis,' but medical experts urge the public to look at the full scientific picture before panicking. RFK Jr.'s claims: 'An existential problem' Kennedy has repeatedly asserted that today's American teenage boys have less testosterone than a 68-year-old man and that sperm counts have plummeted by 50% over the past half-century. He links these trends to the widespread use of artificial food dyes, ultra-processed foods, and environmental chemicals, calling the issue 'existential' for the nation's future. 'A teenager today, an American teenager, has less testosterone than a 68-year-old man,' Kennedy said on Fox News. 'Testosterone levels have decreased by 50 percent from historical averages. … Sperm counts have plummeted by 50 percent, and girls are entering puberty six years sooner.' Kennedy has made these warnings a centerpiece of his public health agenda, tying them to his push for a ban on eight common artificial food dyes and stricter regulation of chemicals such as atrazine , a pesticide he describes as 'extraordinarily toxic' and linked to low sperm counts and birth defects. The science: Is there really a crisis? There is scientific evidence of a global decline in sperm counts. A widely-cited 2022 review in the journal Human Reproduction Update found that average sperm counts dropped by more than 50% worldwide between 1973 and 2018, a trend that has sparked concern among fertility specialists. Similarly, a Yale School of Medicine study published in 2020 found that testosterone levels among young American men fell from 1996 to 2020. However, experts say the reality is far more nuanced. Doctors and reproductive health researchers caution that changes in laboratory techniques and reporting standards over the decades make direct comparisons difficult. Some also note that while sperm counts may be declining, most men today still fall within the range considered fertile. Live Events 'The health secretary has warned about falling sperm counts in teens. Doctors say the reality is far more nuanced and little cause for panic.' What's driving the decline? Researchers point to a complex mix of factors: Obesity and poor diet: Linked to lower testosterone and fertility, and more prevalent among U.S. youth. Chemical exposures: Endocrine disruptors in plastics, pesticides (like atrazine), and synthetic food additives are under scrutiny for their potential impact on reproductive health. Lifestyle factors: Alcohol use, smoking, stress, and lack of exercise all play a role. Socioeconomic and environmental influences: These may also contribute to earlier puberty in girls and changes in male reproductive health. Kennedy's statements have drawn both support and criticism. Some see his focus on food and chemical safety as overdue, while others accuse him of spreading panic and making unsubstantiated medical claims. Notably, Kennedy has also made controversial remarks on autism and other health issues, drawing further scrutiny from scientists and public health officials.
Time of India
02-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
What every man needs to know about diet and sperm health
Do 'biological clocks' only tick for women? Well, for years, there have been extensive studies associating infertility and pregnancy complications with maternal age, and fewer studies focus on reproductive factors in men. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now But there is growing evidence that advanced parental age, either maternal or paternal, is associated with increased difficulty in conceiving, along with susceptibility in children. Many studies have shown that the fertility rate declines with men's age. A 2020 study revealed that conception is 30% less likely for men older than 40 than for men younger than 30. Another study published in the Human Reproduction Update revealed that over the past 46 years, global sperm counts have dropped by more than 50%. So, what's going on with men's reproductive health? And what role does diet play in this mounting crisis? Decline in male fertility is not just associated with age While aging naturally affects sperm quality, like reductions in semen volume, total sperm count, and sperm motility, lifestyle and dietary factors are also seen as powerful contributors to male infertility. One of the main culprits? Oxidative stress. This condition occurs when the body has an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants, and it's especially harmful to sperm. Oxidative stress causes sperm DNA fragmentation, lower motility, and reduced chances of conception. Diet is a major determinant of oxidative stress levels. Let's discuss the food that harms male fertility: Processed and high-fat foods: Diets heavy in processed meats (like bacon, sausage, and hot dogs) and saturated fats (often found in fast food and fried items) are linked to lower sperm quality. These foods reduce testosterone levels and increase abnormal sperm morphology, which can impact fertility. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Alcohol and tobacco: While not foods per se, these lifestyle choices are important to mention. Alcohol interferes with sperm production and reduces libido, while smoking damages sperm DNA, reduces motility, and lowers count. When combined with a poor diet, their impact on male fertility is even more severe. Micronutrient deficiencies: Many men are unaware that lacking essential nutrients can silently sabotage their semen quality. Zinc, selenium, and folate are crucial for spermatogenesis (the process of sperm production). Inadequate levels of these nutrients impair sperm development and reduce semen quality. Tips to boost sperm quality The good news? The male reproductive system is responsive to positive changes. But patience is key. Sperm regeneration takes about 74 days, so dietary and lifestyle modifications must be sustained for at least 2–3 months before improvements are noticeable. Here's how to get started: - Antioxidants: Yes, antioxidants are your semen's best friends. Clinical studies have shown that nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin E, lycopene, and CoQ10 can improve sperm concentration and motility by fighting oxidative stress and protecting sperm DNA from damage. - Maintain a healthy weight: Body weight plays a crucial role in male fertility. Obesity can cause a drop in testosterone and an increase in estrogen levels in men, directly impacting the semen quality. - Quit smoking and limit alcohol: These habits not only harm your overall health but are directly linked to decreased sperm quality. Cutting them out can improve fertility outcomes. Male fertility is no longer a silent subject, and it shouldn't be. If you're planning to have a baby or are concerned about your reproductive health, it's time to take a proactive approach. A semen analysis can offer vital insights into your sperm count, motility, and morphology, giving you a clear picture of where your fertility stands. Many leading brands in the country now offer advanced semen analysis and expert consultation to guide you toward the best reproductive health. The truth is, your daily choices, what you eat, drink, and how you live, impacts your sperm as well as the health of your future children. As science continues to uncover the powerful link between diet and sperm health, it's clear that men must take equal ownership of their reproductive wellness. Authored by: Dr Sonu Taxak, Director & Senior IVF Consultant at Yellow Fertility You Clean Your Diet, But What About Your Company? Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati's Powerful Truth
Time of India
30-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Can you inherit Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome? Understanding the genetic linkage behind PCOS
When 32-year-old Aisha noticed her periods were irregular and painful, she shrugged it off as normal. Yet her mother, Meera, had faced the same symptoms at her age—long, heavy cycles and severe cramps. Meera grew up believing, 'Pain is normal for all women' But Aisha wondered: 'What if this is a medical condition that runs in my family?' Let's uncover the facts behind hereditary fertility issues and empower women across generations with the awareness of PCOS. Why PCOS Matters Across Generations? Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) affects every aspect of a woman's life: metabolism, hormones, appearance, and fertility. It's not just an individual diagnosis, it can even tend to go on from one generation to the next. Research findings suggest that 4 out of 10 women who have a mother or aunt diagnosed with this endocrine female condition are at a significantly higher risk of getting PCOS themselves. Hereditary Risk: Daughters of women with PCOS are six times more likely to develop the condition themselves (source: Human Reproduction Update) Underdiagnosed: Up to 70% of women with PCOS remain undiagnosed, mistaking symptoms for 'bad periods' (WHO) The Triple Threat: Obesity, Hirsutism, and Infertility PCOS manifests in visible and invisible ways—some women struggle with weight, others with excess hair, and many with difficulty conceiving. 1. Obesity & Metabolic Risks: Among Indian women with PCOS, 32% are overweight and 11% obese under WHO cut-offs 43% obese using Asian BMI standards (source: JAMA Network Open) 2. Hirsutism (Unwanted Hair Growth): 70–80% of women with PCOS experience hirsutism compared to 5–10% in the general population (Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism). 3. Infertility's Hidden Toll: Almost 1 in 10 women are diagnosed with PCOS. It actively contributes to approximately 30–50% of infertility cases (ASRM). Most of these symptoms surface over a period of time. They are over and above the symptoms of painful periods that are non-negotiable in most cases. Diagnosis Delays & How to Avoid Them? The risk of PCOS is hereditary, but poor lifestyle choices fuels its fire. Excess weight, sedentary habits, and insulin resistance worsen symptoms and reproductive outcomes. While your metabolic legacy can set the stage for PCOS to be triggered, healthy choices can still rewrite the story. Women report symptoms 7–10 years before a correct PCOS diagnosis, often because cramps and weight gain are dismissed as 'normal' . Misguided treatments—like magical herbal concoctions from village hakims—delay proper care and deepen frustration. Don't wait for a 'miracle cure'—demand medical answers.' Too many women get lost in myths: 'It's just teenage acne.' 'You'll outgrow the cramps.' 'Diet pills will solve it.' Early signs to watch for: irregular periods, severe cramps, sudden weight gain, excess hair, and skin tags. Tracking cycles and symptoms on an app can provide clarity when consulting a doctor. Action Plan: Five Steps To Manage Risk of PCOS Get Screened: If someone in your family also has irregular cycles or infertility, schedule a PCOS work-up by age 25 . Track Your Cycle: Use apps to log periods, moods, and symptoms—insight is empowerment. Tackle Weight Thoughtfully: Even 5–10% weight loss improves ovulation and hormone balance. Address Hair & Skin: Medical hair-removal and dermatology consultations can manage hirsutism and acne. Lean on Experts: Endocrinologists and fertility specialists who offer personalised care to facilitate early detection and proper management. Can Early Intervention Prevent PCOS? 'Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a multifaceted condition that not only affects hormonal balance but also has significant implications for fertility,' says Dr. Prachi Banera, Senior Fertility Specialist at Birla Fertility & IVF. 'Early diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan are crucial to ensure comprehensive care that addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of PCOS early on in life. Our dedicated PCOS Clinic provides personalised treatment plans, to effectively help women take control of their reproductive health.' Birla Fertility & IVF offers a dedicated PCOS Clinic that provides personalised treatment plans, including tailored diet and nutritional guidance, to effectively manage PCOS and improve overall well-being. When Should You Consult a Fertility Expert? Recognising the right time to seek professional help can make a significant difference in managing PCOS and its impact on fertility. Consider consulting a fertility specialist if you experience: Irregular or absent menstrual cycles: This may indicate ovulatory dysfunction, a common issue in PCOS. Difficulty conceiving after 6-12 months of unprotected intercourse: Especially if you're under 35 and have been trying for a year, or over 35 and have been trying for six months. Symptoms of hyperandrogenism: Such as excessive hair growth, acne, or hair thinning. Early consultation allows for timely intervention, which can include lifestyle modifications, medical treatments, or assisted reproductive technologies, depending on individual needs. Knowledge is power! Hereditary fertility challenges don't diminish the beauty of motherhood - they deepen it. By breaking myths and sharing knowledge, daughters and mothers can transform burdens into bridges of understanding and support. By breaking the silence around hereditary fertility issues and tackling myths head-on, daughters and mothers can foster healthier futures in the long run. Share this article with the women you love, start the conversation today, and celebrate the true beauty of womanhood - in all its strength, diversity, and resilience.
Mint
29-05-2025
- Health
- Mint
Why Period Pain Isn't ‘Normal'? - Decoding the Endometriosis and Infertility Connection
Meet Priya, a 34-year-old software professional who endured excruciating period pain for years, brushing it off as something normal just another part of being a woman. Like many, she was told to 'tough it out.' It wasn't until the pain began disrupting her daily life that she sought medical help and was diagnosed with endometriosis, a condition that often goes undetected and can quietly impact fertility if not managed in time. Endometriosis is a medical condition where tissue similar to the lining inside the uterus starts growing outside it usually on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or other parts of the pelvis. This tissue behaves like the uterine lining: it thickens, breaks down, and bleeds each month. But unlike a normal period, this blood has nowhere to go. Over time, this can cause pain, swelling, scar tissue, and in some cases, fertility issues. The most common sign is severe period pain, but it can also lead to discomfort during sex, heavy bleeding, and fatigue. As per World Health Organization (WHO) states that endometriosis may affect 10% of women of reproductive age globally, many of whom may be undiagnosed for years. While not every woman with endometriosis has fertility issues, studies indicate that endometriosis is associated with infertility in 30–50% of cases (American Society for Reproductive Medicine). In some cases, even when a woman with endometriosis is fertile, the pain and hormonal imbalances can interfere with her ability to conceive naturally. Data Point Statistic Source Global prevalence among women of reproductive age ~10% (approx. 190 million globally) World Health Organization (WHO), 2023 Average delay in diagnosis 7 to 10 years Human Reproduction Update, Volume 27, Issue 5, 2021 Percentage of women with endometriosis who face infertility 30% to 50% American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) Percentage of infertile women found to have endometriosis 25% to 50% Journal of Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Disorders, ScienceDirect Women reporting moderate to severe menstrual pain Around 60% of endometriosis patients Journal of Endometriosis, Vol. 2, Issue 2 Average time to treatment after first symptoms Often more than 6 years BMJ Open, 2019 Endometriosis is one of the most underdiagnosed reproductive health disorders, often taking years to be identified. On average, there is a delay of 7 to 10 years between the onset of symptoms and a proper diagnosis (Source: Human Reproduction Update). This delay happens for several key reasons: Symptom Overlap : The pelvic pain, heavy bleeding, and digestive discomfort caused by endometriosis often mimic other conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or regular menstrual cramps, making it difficult to pinpoint. : The pelvic pain, heavy bleeding, and digestive discomfort caused by endometriosis often mimic other conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or regular menstrual cramps, making it difficult to pinpoint. Normalisation of Pain : Many women are led to believe that intense period pain is just part of life. As a result, they delay seeking help until symptoms worsen. Nearly 60% of women with endometriosis experience moderate to severe menstrual pain ( Journal of Endometriosis ). : Many women are led to believe that intense period pain is just part of life. As a result, they delay seeking help until symptoms worsen. Nearly ( ). Invasive Diagnosis: A confirmed diagnosis usually requires laparoscopic surgery, a procedure that many delay unless symptoms become severe, contributing further to late detection. Dr. Rashmika Gandhi, Senior Reproductive Health Specialist at Birla Fertility & IVF, explains: 'Because the symptoms of endometriosis are so varied - and often dismissed as 'normal period pain' - many women suffer silently for years. Early and accurate diagnosis is critical, not just for managing pain, but also for addressing potential fertility issues.' Symptoms of Endometriosis While there is currently no definitive cure for endometriosis, several treatment options can manage its symptoms and potentially reverse its progression: Hormonal Therapies: These therapies aim to shrink endometrial lesions and reduce inflammation. Medications such as birth control pills, GnRH agonists, and progestins can help reduce or eliminate pain by regulating the menstrual cycle. These therapies aim to shrink endometrial lesions and reduce inflammation. Medications such as birth control pills, GnRH agonists, and progestins can help reduce or eliminate pain by regulating the menstrual cycle. Surgical Intervention: Laparoscopic surgery can remove endometrial implants and adhesions, often leading to significant pain relief and improved fertility outcomes. Laparoscopic surgery can remove endometrial implants and adhesions, often leading to significant pain relief and improved fertility outcomes. Pain Management: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly prescribed to manage the pain associated with endometriosis. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly prescribed to manage the pain associated with endometriosis. Lifestyle Modifications: Incorporating a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, regular exercise, and stress-reduction techniques like yoga or meditation can help alleviate symptoms. Incorporating a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, regular exercise, and stress-reduction techniques like yoga or meditation can help alleviate symptoms. Emerging Treatments: Research into novel therapies, such as immunomodulators and targeted anti-inflammatory drugs, offers hope for more effective long-term management. Dr. Rashmika Gandhiadds, 'While science is yet to find a cure for endometriosis, a combination of surgical and non-surgical treatments tailored to each woman's needs can significantly reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.' Endometriosis is more than just painful periods; it's a chronic condition that can affect quality of life and fertility if left unmanaged. Recognising symptoms early, understanding potential risks, and seeking timely medical care can make a significant difference. Open conversations and better awareness help individuals make informed choices about their health. No one should have to live with ongoing pain or unanswered questions about their body. If you've been experiencing severe menstrual cramps, pelvic pain, or difficulties conceiving, consult a gynaecologist. With the right care and support, managing endometriosis is possible — and so is living well. Note to readers: This article is part of Mint's paid consumer connect Initiative. Mint assumes no editorial involvement or responsibility for errors, omissions, or content accuracy. Want to get your story featured as above? click here!
The Independent
23-04-2025
- Health
- The Independent
RFK Jr claims teenage boys in America have less testosterone than 68 year-old men in latest rant
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr has declared a new 'existential problem': declining testosterone levels and sperm counts in teenage boys. The 71-year-old baselessly suggested that testosterone levels in teens were being dwarfed by 68-year-old men during an appearance on Fox News ' Jesse Watters Primetime Tuesday to discuss the government's plans to ban eight common artificial food dyes by the end of the year. 'The food our kids are eating today is not really food,' RFK Jr told host Jesse Watters, adding that the science surrounding the petroleum-based synthetic dyes has been 'systematically suppressed.' After touting his war on chronic disease and listing a raft of health issues faced by Americans, the nation's top health official turned his attention to male fertility. 'We have fertility rates that are just spiraling. A teenager today, an American teenager, has less testosterone than a 68-year-old man,' RFK Jr, who revealed previously that he takes the hormone as part of his anti-aging protocol, said. 'Sperm counts are down 50 percent and girls are hitting puberty six years early,' the health official added as the Fox News host cuts in, attempting to return to his previous claims. 'Wait, an American teenager has less testosterone than a 60-year-old man?,' the Fox News host probed. 'That's right,' RFK Jr doubled down. 'Testosterone levels have dropped 50 percent from historic levels. And, you know, that is a problem. It's an existential problem. That is only when we have obesity off the charts.' Over the past five decades, human sperm counts appear to have fallen by more than 50 percent worldwide, according to a 2022 review from the Human Reproduction Update journal. The review, which focused on data from between 1973 and 2018, sparked debate amongst fertility experts, with some medical professionals supporting the findings while others concluding that methods of counting sperm have drastically changed over the years, making it impossible to accurately compare numbers. A 2020 study from the Yale School of Medicine published in the Urology Times Journal suggested that testosterone levels have dropped among young adult males in the U.S from 1996 to 2020. RFK Jr also peddled misinformation about autism, claiming it is worse than Covid-19, which has killed more than 7 million people worldwide. The health official vowed to uncover the root cause behind the 'epidemic' earlier this month. 'There was a wave of anger against me because I announced that we're going to find the cause of autism,' he said. 'This is something that President Trump told me on day one: 'I want to know what's causing it within a year.' And I announced how we're going to do that.'
