A NEW global study has revealed a steady rise in infertility rates between 1990 and 2021, with projections indicating continued increases over the next 15 years. The research, based on data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2021, highlights infertility as a growing public health and economic concern, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where access to fertility treatment remains limited.
The study estimates that in 2021, the global age-standardised prevalence rate (ASPR) for male infertility was 1,354.76 cases per 100,000 individuals, while for female infertility, it was significantly higher at 2,764.62 per 100,000 individuals. The research also found that India, China, and Indonesia ranked highest in infertility prevalence and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) associated with infertility.
Over the past three decades, the annual percentage increase in infertility prevalence was 0.5% for men and 0.7% for women, with population growth accounting for nearly 65% of the overall burden. The findings suggest that the social and economic impact of infertility, including mental health strain, marital challenges, and financial burdens, has intensified.
The study calls for urgent improvements in healthcare infrastructure, access to fertility treatments, and public awareness campaigns to address infertility. With projections indicating further increases in infertility cases by 2036, researchers stress the importance of early diagnosis, enhanced treatment options, and policy interventions to mitigate the impact on affected individuals and healthcare systems worldwide.
Aleksandra Zurowska, EMJ
Reference
Feng J et al. Epidemiological characteristics of infertility, 1990–2021, and 15-year forecasts: an analysis based on the global burden of disease study 2021. Reprod Health. 2025;DOI: 10.1186/s12978-025-01966-7.
