International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics

Pollution caused by alternative energy sources could be affecting fertility among Nigerians.

This is according to Abdul-Gafar Jimoh, professor of obstetrics and gynaecology at the University of Llorin, who said research indicates hydrocarbons released by "excessive use of alternative energy" has "far-reaching consequences" on male sperm production and the female ovulation process, the Nigerian Tribune reports.

Many Nigerians use generators to produce electricity during power outages and Professor Jimoh noted "almost every other house" has such equipment.

"When there is no public power supply they all release fumes and pollute the air," he remarked, adding infertility is now affecting as many as 25 per cent of married couples in the country.

Infertility across Nigeria is also affected by age, he observed, noting women are now marrying at an average age of at least 32, compared to 25 two decades ago.

Fertility problems "should be less" if couples tie the knot earlier on in life, he concluded.

Posted by Paul Robertson