In a new paper published in Human Reproduction Update, a group of doctors warns that the global fertility rate is declining, and governments are failing to acknowledge its profound impact on economies and societies
The doctors predict a population decline of over 50% in many countries from 2017 to 2100, excluding migration effects.
According to the paper, by 2050, 77% of predominantly high-income countries and, by 2100, 93% of all countries are expected to have a total fertility rate below the replacement level of 2.1 children per woman. Fertility specialists from various countries emphasised the urgency of addressing this issue.
With underpopulation emerging as a significant concern globally, the paper aims to provide recommendations for governments, policymakers, companies, healthcare professionals, and patients to address infertility risk factors and improve the affordability and accessibility of fertility care.
Bart CJM Fauser, co-first author of the paper and scientific director at the International Federation of Fertility Societies (IFFS), emphasised that access to fertility care is often unaffordable, inaccessible, and inequitable and needs to change.
Despite major advances in fertility care over the last three decades, the authors highlight ongoing challenges in achieving equity across countries, cultures, and economies.
IFFS President Edgar Mocanu stated that infertility is often preventable, emphasising the importance of balanced fertility and contraceptive education to empower individuals in family planning decisions.
Infertility affects one in six people of reproductive age, impacting both women and men
The paper identifies risk factors such as sexually transmitted infections, smoking, excessive alcohol intake, obesity, and poor nutrition, with additional concerns about increasing environmental factors like air pollution and poorly regulated chemicals.
The doctors recommend policy measures supporting families and working women, including compensation for extended pregnancy leave, childcare, parental leave, and increased access to assisted reproductive technology services (ART), as potential solutions to improve birth rates.
Dr. Luca Gianaroli, IFFS director of education, urged countries to consider public funding for fertility treatment, emphasising the economic benefits to society that exceed the cost of treatment, particularly as populations age.
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