The impact of air pollution and endocrine disruptors on reproduction and assisted reproduction.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Rapid increase in world population accompanied by global industrialization has led to an increase in deployment of natural resources, resulting in growing levels of pollution. Here, we review recent literature on the impact of environmental pollution on human reproductive health and assisted reproduction outcomes, focusing on two of the most common: air pollution and endocrine disruptors.

RECENT FINDINGS: Air pollution has been associated with diminished ovarian reserve, uterine leiomyoma, decreased sperm concentration and motility. Air pollution also correlates with decreased pregnancy rates in patients undergoing infertility treatment using in-vitro fertilization (IVF). Similarly, Bisphenol A (BPA), a well studied endocrine disrupting chemical, with oestrogen-like activity, is associated with diminished ovarian reserve, and abnormal semen parameters, while clinical implications for patients undergoing infertility treatment remain to be established.

SUMMARY: There is convincing evidence that environmental pollutants may have a negative impact on human health and reproductive potential. Air pollutions and endocrine disrupting chemicals found in water and food seem to affect male and female reproductive function. Large-scale studies are needed to determine the threshold values for health impact that may drive targeted policies.