A new report published by the World Health Organisation (WHO), revealed that large numbers of people are affected by infertility in their lifetime.

The report said that around 17.5 per cent of the adult population, roughly one in six worldwide, experience infertility, showing the urgent need to increase access to affordable, high-quality fertility care for those in need.

“The new estimates show limited variation in the prevalence of infertility between regions. The rates are comparable for high-, middle- and low-income countries, indicating that this is a major health challenge globally.

“Lifetime prevalence was 17.8 per cent in high-income countries and 16.5 per cent in low- and middle-income countries.”

A statement by the WHO on Monday read, “At present, in most countries, fertility treatments are largely funded out of pocket – often resulting in devastating financial costs. People in the poorest countries spend a greater proportion of their income on fertility care compared to people in wealthier countries. High costs frequently prevent people from accessing infertility treatments or can catapult them into poverty as a consequence of seeking care.”

The Director General of the global health body, Dr Tedros Ghebreyesus said the report reveals an important truth – infertility does not discriminate.

“The sheer proportion of people affected shows the need to widen access to fertility care and ensure this issue is no longer sidelined in health research and policy so that safe, effective, and affordable ways to attain parenthood are available for those who seek it.

“Millions of people face catastrophic healthcare costs after seeking infertility treatment, making this a major equity issue and all too often, a medical poverty trap for those affected. Better policies and public financing can significantly improve access to treatment and protect poorer households from falling into poverty as a result.”