Contemporary farming heavily depends on chemical pesticides, making it increasingly difficult to avoid ingestion of harmful residues through food despite health-conscious choices. A research review from George Mason University’s College of Public Health and College of Science revealed alarming patterns between insecticide exposure and declining male fertility.
Led by public health alumna Sumaiya Safia Irfan and chemistry student Veronica Sanchez, the team analyzed twenty-one experimental studies spanning 2005 to 2025. The studies consistently indicated that insecticide exposure may reduce sperm quality, alter hormones, and damage testicular tissues.
According to Irfan, the findings suggest a compelling link between pesticide absorption and fertility decline. She emphasized the need for awareness and responsible choices in food sourcing and household pesticide use.
Widespread Use of Neonicotinoid Pesticides
The team focused on neonicotinoids, the world’s most extensively used insecticides absorbed by soil, water, and plants. These chemicals are common in modern agriculture, making human exposure nearly unavoidable.
Sanchez explained that rodent-based studies showed consistent sperm quality deterioration following exposure to neonicotinoids. Although human studies remain limited, the findings underscore the potential reproductive risks posed by these chemicals.
Need for Deeper Human-Centered Research
Melissa Perry, an environmental health epidemiologist and Dean of the College of Public Health, highlighted that neonicotinoid use has significantly increased across U.S. farms. She noted the urgent need to determine how ongoing exposure affects human reproductive systems.
Both Perry and Irfan agreed that while surface-level cleaning of produce can reduce contaminants, pesticide residues absorbed by plants cannot be completely eliminated through washing alone.
Steps to Reduce Exposure and Promote Awareness
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommends washing fruits and vegetables under running water and peeling when possible, although systemic pesticides remain harder to remove.
Irfan urged consumers to adopt mindful shopping habits, source produce from trusted farms, and limit unnecessary household pesticide use to reduce exposure risks.
