According to a report by the World Health Organization (WHO) released on Monday, around one in six adults worldwide have experienced infertility at least once in their lifetime, affecting approximately 17.5% of adults across the globe. The report analyzed studies conducted between 1990 and 2021 and highlights the need for countries to actively gather more consistent data on the disease. The WHO defines infertility as a disease of the reproductive system that is characterized by the failure to achieve pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular unprotected sexual intercourse.
WHO officials have urged countries to widen access to fertility care and include the issue in health research and policy. James Kiarie, the global health agency's unit head for Contraception and Fertility Care, said that there was no evidence of increasing rates of infertility between 1990 and 2021. The report stresses the need for countries to collect and share consistent data on infertility, including information on age and cause, as well as data on those who need fertility care.
The report also showed that approximately 17.8% of adults in high-income countries and about 16.5% of adults in low- and middle-income countries have experienced infertility at least once. The WHO hopes that the report's findings will increase awareness about infertility and lead to better policies and treatments.