Latest news with #ISAR
New Indian Express
3 days ago
- Health
- New Indian Express
Male infertility accounts for nearly half of India's 27 million cases, say experts
Dr. Ameet Patki, President of ISAR, warned that while India's IVF market is projected to soar, from USD 750 million in 2020 to a staggering USD 3.7 billion by 2030 those figures represent more than just business growth. 'Behind the market expansion are millions of emotionally taxing, often invisible journeys. Nearly half of these involve male-factor infertility, but men remain largely absent from the conversation,' Dr Patki said at the just-concluded summit, which was hosted by the Integrated Health & Wellbeing (IHW) Council in collaboration with the Indian Society for Assisted Reproduction (ISAR) and supported by the Indian Fertility Society (IFS). This exclusion has real-world consequences: delays in diagnosis, gendered treatment approaches, and emotional distress for couples navigating the healthcare system. According to Kamal Narayan, CEO of the IHW Council, 'Male infertility is no longer a fringe issue, it is a national health priority. We cannot talk about inclusive fertility care without addressing this reality head-on.' The summit brought together clinicians, embryologists, hospital leaders, legal experts, and patient advocates in a bid to realign India's fertility care narrative. One notable moment came with the launch of the book How to Freeze Your Biological Clock by Dr. Gunjan Gupta, Medical Director of Gunjan IVF World. Though primarily aimed at guiding women through fertility preservation, the book also contributes to the broader conversation around evidence-based and gender-inclusive fertility planning. The message from experts is clear: India's fertility ecosystem must move beyond stigma and adopt a scientifically grounded, emotionally attuned approach that acknowledges infertility as a shared burden. And male reproductive health as a critical part of the solution.
Business Standard
4 days ago
- Health
- Business Standard
Male Infertility Identified as a Growing Contributor to India's Fertility Crisis at the 6th India IVF Summit
VMPL New Delhi [India], July 26: Marking World IVF Day, observed globally on July 25, the 6th India IVF Summit & Awards 2025, hosted by the Integrated Health & Wellbeing (IHW) Council in collaboration with the Indian Society for Assisted Reproduction (ISAR) and sustainability hour supported by the Indian Fertility Society (IFS), brought together over 150 leading voices from India's fertility landscape. While the summit explored broader access and ethical care, a central theme that sparked significant dialogue was the growing burden of male infertility in India. With the theme "Building the World's Most Inclusive IVF Ecosystem," the summit convened clinicians, researchers, embryologists, hospital leaders, legal experts, and patient advocates at Crowne Plaza, New Delhi for a day of meaningful discussions on the future of reproductive care. Among the key discussions, male infertility emerged as a pressing public health concern. According to the Indian Society of Assisted Reproduction, India has approximately 27.5 million individuals facing infertility challenges--with male factor infertility accounting for 40-50% of these cases. This growing prevalence, driven by lifestyle changes, environmental exposures, and undiagnosed medical conditions, underscores the urgent need for awareness, destigmatization, and inclusive treatment approaches. The summit was graced by medical luminaries such as Dr. Ameet Patki- President ISAR, Dr Jaideep Malhotra, Managing Director Rainbow IVF, Past President, ISAR & FOGSI, Dr Hrishikesh Pai- Founder and Medical Director, Bloom IVF Group who shared insights on evolving clinical standards, ART governance, and the ethical dimensions of reproductive technology. While sessions addressed topics such as onco-fertility, genomics, sustainability in IVF, and expanding care to rural regions, many experts agreed that male reproductive health has long been overlooked--both in public discourse and clinical care pathways. A dedicated roundtable on male infertility offered fresh perspectives on diagnosis, counseling, and the role of men in the fertility journey. Adding a significant layer to the day's discussions was the book launch of "How to Freeze Your Biological Clock" by Dr. Gunjan Gupta, Medical Director Gunjan IVF World. The book serves as a comprehensive guide for women navigating fertility planning, but also contributes to the broader dialogue on empowering individuals--both men and women--with timely, evidence-based fertility choices. The summit also introduced the Sustainability Hour, a unique platform focused on environmentally conscious fertility practices. Innovations showcased included low-hormonal stimulation protocols, AI-powered diagnostics, and holistic, patient-first approaches that account for emotional as well as medical wellbeing. In his opening remarks, Mr Kamal Narayan, CEO, IHW Council, stated, "Male infertility is no longer a silent issue, it's a shared reality for millions of families across India. With male factors contributing to around 40-50 percent of infertility cases, this is not a marginal concern, it's a national health priority. At this summit, we recognized that fertility care must evolve to reflect this truth. We can't achieve true inclusivity without addressing male reproductive health head-on. Our goal is to build an ecosystem that is medically sound, emotionally sensitive, and socially inclusive--where care is guided by science and not stigma." The evening concluded with the IVF Awards 2025, honouring over 30 leaders and institutions advancing fertility care through innovation, compassion, and excellence. This year's edition notably amplified efforts in male infertility diagnostics and education, along with regional recognitions that celebrated unsung heroes bringing fertility services to rural and underserved communities. Dr Pankaj Talwar, President,Indian Fertility Society , noted, "For too long, infertility has been viewed through a lens focused only on women, while male infertility now contributing to nearly half of all cases remains shrouded in silence. With rising cases linked to factors like stress, obesity, hormonal imbalances, lifestyle habits such as smoking and alcohol use, and even medication side effects, the issue is more complex than ever. This summit has brought much-needed attention to the male side of the equation. Addressing it openly is critical to building a truly equitable and evidence-based approach to reproductive health in India." Mrs Nikky Gupta, CEO & Co-Founder of Teamwork Communications Group, added, "India stands at a crossroads in its fertility journey. With nearly half of infertility cases involving male factors, we can no longer afford to treat this as a secondary concern. Our response must be holistic and future-ready combining early diagnostics, accessible counselling, targeted public awareness, and strong clinical protocols tailored to male reproductive health. From tackling lifestyle-related causes like obesity and substance use to addressing underlying medical conditions and stigma, male infertility must now take center stage in our national reproductive health narrative and policymaking." As India's IVF market is projected to grow fivefold by 2030--from USD 750 million in 2020 to USD 3.7 billion--the summit reinforced a deeper commitment: to not only expand fertility treatment options, but also to dismantle the stigma surrounding male infertility and restore dignity to every individual's journey to parenthood. The 6th India IVF Summit & Awards 2025, organized by IHW Council in association with ISAR and supported by IFS, is supported by associate partners Meyer Vitabiotics and BSV, session partners Gufic Biosciences and JB Pharma, fertility insurance partner SafeTree, healthcare finance partner Fibe, legal partner Trust Legal, and communication partner Teamwork Communications Group.
India Today
15-05-2025
- Health
- India Today
Obesity in Indian women is a growing crisis: Nearly half over 35 are overweight
Indian women are increasingly being affected by obesity, and this is starting early in life, doctors warn. In fact, recent data shows that more than half of women aged 18-30 are already overweight, a trend that experts say demands immediate public health attention.A new consensus statement published in the Indian Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology Research has raised concerns about the rising burden of obesity among women, especially in the reproductive age group. Led by Dr. Nandita Palshetkar from Mumbai's Lilavati Hospital, along with 11 other specialists from across India, the study puts forward clear clinical recommendations on how doctors should assess and manage obesity among Indian women, with specific guidance for those planning a paper is an initiative of the Indian Society of Assisted Reproduction (ISAR), and draws from over 75 studies, including government surveys and global reports. What the numbers sayAccording to the report, the problem of obesity is not limited to urban or affluent women. In fact, the National Family Health Survey-5 (2019–21) found that 33.2% of urban women and 19.7% of rural women in India are overweight or obese (defined as BMI of more than 25 kg/m2).The numbers climb sharply with age. A study of over 6.4 lakh Indian women found that nearly 49% of those aged 35-49 were overweight or obese. In the 18–30 age group, another study revealed that more than half, 52.4%, were already obese. According to the report, the problem of obesity is not limited to urban or affluent women. () advertisement"The trends are very clear. Obesity is increasing and affecting younger women, including those planning pregnancies. We need urgent action, at the clinical and public health level," the paper PCOS to stillbirths, how obesity affects women's healthObesity in women is linked to a wide range of health complications, some of them unique to women. These include:Irregular periods and infertilityPolycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)Gestational diabetes and high blood pressure during pregnancyHigher risk of miscarriages and stillbirthsUrinary incontinence and uterine fibroidsIncreased risk of C-sections and birth complicationsDoctors say these effects begin early, from puberty, and continue through menopause. Obesity also worsens conditions like depression, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular disease in postmenopausal women. The consensus calls on gynaecologists and primary care physicians to routinely assess BMI, waist circumference, and lifestyle factors in women during check-ups — especially if they are planning to losing 5–10% body weight can make a big differenceThe study highlights that even a modest weight loss, as little as 5–10% of body weight, can improve hormonal balance, restore ovulation, reduce insulin resistance, and increase chances of natural conception or IVF with PCOS who lost weight reported:Better menstrual regularityImproved ovulationHigher live birth ratesLower miscarriage risk The study highlights that even a modest weight loss, as little as 5–10% of body weight, can improve hormonal balance. () In addition, weight loss improves urinary incontinence, mobility, and mental health, enhancing overall quality of life.'By managing obesity early, ideally before conception, we can significantly improve fertility outcomes and reduce risks during pregnancy. Our aim is to help women make small, sustainable lifestyle changes, which can go a long way in protecting maternal, fetal and child health,' said lead author Dr Nanditha Palshetkar, Medical Director, Bloom IVF Lilavati works: Diet, exercise, therapy, and when needed, medicinesThe expert panel recommends that lifestyle changes must be the first line of treatment. This includes:Reducing sugar and saturated fatsIncreasing fiber and protein intakeAt least 150 minutes of exercise per weekMindfulness, portion control, and sleep hygieneFor some women, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) can help address emotional eating and support weight lifestyle changes alone are not enough, doctors may consider medication for women with BMI more than 27 and a related health condition, or BMI more than Orlistat is available in India. Semaglutide (2.4 mg) has been approved by the drug regulator but is not yet available in the Indian market. These drugs have shown significant weight-loss effects in clinical trials, alongside improvements in hormone levels and fertility parameters. However, they are not recommended during pregnancy or surgery is an option, but only for someFor women with BMI more than 35 or those with serious health complications, bariatric surgery may be considered. The procedure has been linked to rapid weight loss, improved fertility, better hormone levels, and reduced risks during pregnancy. However, conception is advised only after a 12-month waiting period post-surgery. When lifestyle changes alone are not enough, doctors may consider medication for women. () What should pregnant women do?Doctors warn against using weight-loss medications during pregnancy. Instead, they recommend lifestyle interventions, like diet and exercise, as the safest and most effective way to prevent gain during pregnancy should be monitored and tailored to BMI categories, while postpartum weight management should involve structured programs aiming for a weight loss of 0.5 kg/week."Breastfeeding should be encouraged, and anti-obesity medications may only be considered after cessation of breastfeeding. For perimenopausal and post-menopausal women, evaluating muscle mass, bone health, and screening for metabolic disorders is crucial before implementing weight management strategies,' said study co-author Dr. Piya Ballani Thakkar, an endocrinologist specialising in diabetes and metabolic consensus also offers trimester-specific weight gain guidelines and emphasises postpartum weight management through breastfeeding support, structured diet, and exercise — once breastfeeding stops, medications can be reconsidered under medical among Indian women is not just about body image, it's a serious medical issue with long-term health consequences. The ISAR-led recommendations provide a much-needed roadmap for doctors to screen, manage, and treat obesity more InMust Watch
Time of India
25-04-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Steroids, Sperm Count Decline, and Stigma: India Faces Silent Male Infertility Crisis
New Delhi: Male infertility is quietly escalating into a public health crisis in India, yet remains among the most under-discussed medical conditions in the country. With traditional masculinity still tied to physical strength and social expectations, the subject of male reproductive health is too often buried under layers of stigma, misinformation, and silence. Startling data reveal that only 25 per cent of Indian men meet normal semen parameters—meaning 75 percent face issues related to semen volume, sperm count, motility, or morphology. Male-factor infertility accounts for nearly 40–50 percent of all infertility cases in India, supported by studies from the Indian Society for Assisted Reproduction (ISAR) and National Medical Journal of India. These findings emphasise the critical need for a shift in focus towards male infertility, as it is a significant contributor to the overall infertility rates in the country. This concern takes on added urgency as the country observes National Infertility Awareness Week , aiming to shed light on the challenges of infertility and the importance of inclusive reproductive health conversations. 'The conversation around infertility still centers heavily on women. We urgently need a shift toward inclusivity and science-backed awareness,' says Dr. Prachi Benara, Senior Consultant and Centre Head at Birla Fertility & IVF. "One of the most alarming contributors to declining sperm health is the unregulated use of anabolic steroids and gym supplements. In the race for rapid muscle gains and social media-worthy physiques, many young men are unknowingly compromising their fertility," Dr. Benara added. Even a few months of steroid use can bring sperm count down to zero. 'Most over-the-counter supplements in India don't disclose their ingredients properly. Many men fall prey to quack advice or misguided gym trainers,' she warns. Worse, some men unknowingly take testosterone injections, which can shut down natural sperm production. Beyond supplements, several other lifestyle factors are contributing to the decline: tobacco use, poor diet, high BMI, sedentary work, and increased age. While women face a biological clock, men experience a more gradual reproductive decline called andropause. Studies show sperm quality begins to significantly deteriorate after the age of 40—a challenge for many urban men delaying parenthood. Data Deficit and Diagnostic Gaps Despite the growing threat, India lacks comprehensive data on steroid-linked infertility. Most men don't disclose supplement use unless directly asked, making it difficult to trace the root cause of fertility issues. However, experts believe early testing—especially semen analysis—is crucial. Clinicians assess four key parameters: volume, count, motility, and morphology. Ideally, a sample should have more than 1 ml of semen, over 16 million sperm/ml, 40 percent motility, and a morphology score above four percent. Yet, only 1 in 4 Indian men meets these benchmarks. The good news: recovery is possible. If steroid use is discontinued within a year, many men show significant improvement in sperm quality within six months, she stated. Another hidden aspect of male infertility is the issue of non-consummation of marriage, often due to psychological conditions like vaginismus or erectile dysfunction. 'Up to 90 percent of such cases improve with conversation and counseling alone,' Dr. Benara adds. At Birla Fertility, initial consultations last up to an hour and prioritize mental health and emotional well-being before recommending diagnostics or IVF. 'Many couples don't need IVF right away. What they need first is someone to listen—without judgment,' she says. With India's Total Fertility Rate (TFR) dipping to 1.99—below the replacement level—the implications of untreated infertility loom large. However, the rise of technology and affordability is bringing hope. Today, an IVF cycle costs ₹1.7–1.75 lakh, down from ₹2.5–3 lakh, and EMI options are widely available. Some employers have even started including IVF in insurance plans. Advanced technologies like AI-assisted lab procedures and microfluidics are enhancing outcomes. While CRISPR and genome editing are not yet used in Indian IVF, DNA-quality assessments are emerging as the next frontier. The Road Ahead: Replace Silence with Science India is at a crossroads. Without proactive steps, the socio-economic fallout of untreated infertility could mirror aging societies like Japan and South Korea. Between the ages of 35 and 50—coincidentally peak career years—many Indians are also at peak fertility risk. Without proactive steps, the socio-economic fallout of untreated infertility could mirror aging societies like Japan and South Korea. Between the ages of 35 and 50—coincidentally peak career years—many Indians are also at peak fertility risk. 'This conversation needs to evolve—from one filled with fear and shame to one grounded in empathy, education, and empowerment,' says Dr. Benara. The stigma must end. Science must speak. And the silence around male infertility must finally be broken.
Yahoo
09-03-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Firefighters train Malawians to prepare for floods
Three firefighters from the London Fire Brigade have helped train first responders in Malawi how to be better prepared to tackle flood emergencies. The trio's deployment comes after Tropical Storm Freddy ripped through southern Africa, killing hundreds of people, two years ago. About 60 Malawian delegates spent a fortnight learning skills, including how to treat people who have been in the water for a long time, search and rescue response coordination and how to perform water rescues from a power boat. Ian Simpson, the brigade's International Search and Rescue (ISAR) coordinator, said he was always ready to share his skills "to help save lives". The station commander was part of the UK's ISAR team that flew out to Malawi in March 2023 to help with the cyclone rescue efforts. He said he felt he had "built an affinity with the people and the country" and the latest visit was a "real opportunity to add value". "It's a country accustomed to having lots of rain and cyclone seasons, but Cyclone Freddy was the longest-lasting tropical storm on record lasting for 36 days," he said. "Sadly, with climate change, this type of disaster is probably going to be more prevalent in many parts of the world." Mr Simpson was joined by station officer Alastair Hislop, who had accompanied him on the deployment to Bangula in southern Malawi two years ago, and firefighter Sarah Mimnagh. The training took place on the shores of Lake Malawi in the eastern region. "We taught local agencies about disaster risk management but also how to be more strategic with resources when a disaster, like floods, hit," said Mr Simpson. "The teams we met out there were really receptive to our expertise and were fully engaged in everything we had to teach them both on the boats and in the classroom." Mr Simpson, who has been part of the UK ISAR team for five years, added: "It sounds like a cliché but being able to help people really is the reason for doing this type of work." Listen to the best of BBC Radio London on Sounds and follow BBC London on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to London prepares for 'clear risk' of climate change fires Almost 25,000 wildfires fought during summer London Fire Brigade
