According to a recent study, the most commonly used pesticides in agriculture and gardening have been found to decrease male fertility
The study conducted a meta-analysis of 25 previous studies involving 1,700 male participants over several decades. The results revealed that the pesticides organophosphates (OPs) and N-methyl carbamates (NMCs) significantly reduce sperm count in men.
All 25 studies reviewed in the meta-analysis consistently showed that men with higher exposure to these pesticides had lower sperm counts compared to those with less exposure. The research primarily focused on exposure through farming or textile work, where these chemicals are commonly used. However, it’s worth noting that these pesticides are also used in gardening and construction.
Despite the compelling evidence of male infertility caused by pesticide usage, meta-analyses of these studies are uncommon, and regulation addressing this issue is lacking.
The study, published by the Environmental Health Perspectives journal in November, emphasises the need to reduce exposure to OP and NMC insecticides to prevent further harm to male reproductive health
The Environmental Health Perspectives journal is supported by the National Institutes of Health.
Melissa Perry, the dean of the College of Public Health at George Mason University, states that sperm concentration worldwide has declined by about 50% over the past 50 years. While there are likely multiple contributing factors, the study highlights a strong association between the decline in sperm concentration and the use of two common insecticides: organophosphates and N-methyl carbamates.
Organophosphates are widely used in agriculture, insecticides, herbicides, and the production of plastics and solvents. Studies conducted on lab rats have shown that different organophosphates can lead to adrenal, thyroid, and pancreatic tumors.
N-methyl carbamates have a similar chemical structure to organophosphates and produce similar effects. They are used in insecticides applied to various crops to control pests like beetles, borers, nematodes, and weevils.
Dr. Alexander Pastuszak, an assistant professor of surgery and urology at The University of Utah School of Medicine, asserts that there is enough evidence to confirm that these compounds can have a negative impact on male fertility. However, the ultimate impact on actual fertility can only be determined when attempting to conceive.
In terms of pesticide producers, the largest company is Syngenta, which was acquired by the Chinese regime. Following Syngenta is the German multinational Bayer, which purchased Monsanto. Monsanto, an American company known for producing the glyphosate-containing weedkiller Roundup, has faced several lawsuits regarding allegations of cancer development in farmers who used their product. Bayer is also involved in genetically modified crops through its association with Monsanto.
The study also raises concerns about the influence of multinational companies on U.S. regulators. Non-profit organisations like the International Life Sciences Institute (ILSI), funded by large agricultural businesses and food multinational companies, provide recommendations that impact the formulation of legislation on what is considered safe for human consumption. ILSI has received substantial funding from pesticide producers such as Syngenta and Bayer, as well as other major companies.
The study raises questions about the role of multinational companies in influencing regulatory decisions related to pesticide safety.
