Summary
The article under consideration was published in 2021 by Nicholas Kristof and entitled “Nicholas Kristof: What are sperm telling us?”. The article dwells upon the current changes in the reproductive function of people. An increasing number of men and women have reproductive abnormalities, such as a decreased number of sperm cells in males and early puberty in females. These shifts are associated with an increased risk of infertility, which may even lead to a considerable negative influence on humans as species. Although it is early to speak of human extinction, the results of recent studies are quite alarming, according to Kristof (2021). These changes are linked to people’s growing exposure to chemicals, especially phthalates. These chemicals are also referred to as endocrine disruptors that cause the reproductive abnormalities mentioned above. Although some people believe that the problem is being exaggerated, scientists note that experiments with mice have shown a direct link between exposure to endocrine disruptors and infertility in this species. Researchers stress that the reactions in other species can be different, but the correlation is rather evident, so more research on the matter is necessary.
The article also includes a description of some methods to reduce the harmful influence of chemicals on readers’ reproductive systems. Kristof (2021) notes that people should reduce their exposure to harmful elements. It is recommended to store food in glass containers, use cotton or linen (not vinyl) shower curtains, consume organic foods, and avoid using air fresheners. Clearly, it is necessary to quit smoking and using marijuana in case such unhealthy behaviors are displayed. These simple tips can help people be healthier and ensure their offspring’s health.
Reflection
This article is a valuable source of data regarding the health of people’s reproductive systems. Most importantly, the author brings out the issue and makes readers aware of the existing threat. Kristof (2021) sheds light on studies that have not received high publicity so far, but these investigations deserve wide discussion in the public sphere. The changes taking place these days already have a considerable effect on people’s lives. An increasing number of couples face the problem of infertility, which causes a lot of distress and financial losses. People are still unconscious about the existing hazards that jeopardize the proper development of their communities and, maybe, the entire humanity.
The author draws parallels between the problem of people’s reproductive health and environmental issues. It is emphasized that environmental sustainability has become the highest priority in the world, and governments of the majority of countries develop programs to address the issue. This attention is due to the visible consequences of irresponsible activities of older generations (and their ancestors). The changes in humans’ reproductive health are not yet noticed, so people are willing to ignore them. However, in a few decades or even years, countries may face considerable challenges that can affect their healthcare systems and economy in general. Therefore, it is critical to develop and undertake some effective measures to address the problem and ensure the health of people’s reproductive system.
Definitions
Sperm (also referred to as spermatozoa and sperm cells) is a male reproductive cell (Chabner, 2020).
Insemination is the introduction of sperm cells to the female reproductive system (Chabner, 2020).
Genital abnormalities are unusual anatomic or physiological peculiarities of reproductive organs (Chabner, 2020).
Miscarriage is a spontaneous abortion (Chabner, 2020).
The egg is a female reproductive cell.
Endocrine refers to the system controlling the level of different hormones in the body (Chabner, 2020).
References
Chabner, D. E. (2020). The language of medicine (12th ed.). Elsevier Health Sciences.
Kristof, N. (2021). Nicholas Kristof: What are sperm telling us? The New York Times. Web.