Pregnancy is usually a time of happiness and hope, but it also brings in the unexpected. While there is much talk placed on the health of the expectant mother, the quality sperm coming from the father could dramatically change the outcome of pregnancy. The latest study suggests the risks of sperm DNA damage, even increasing the risks of complications preeclampsia and birth prematurity.

In a groundbreaking research study conducted by scientists from Lund University in Sweden, scientists discovered that DNA damage in sperm increases the risk almost up to double that of preeclampsia, this is a dangerous condition that may arise during pregnancies characterized by high blood pressure. In addition, DNA anomalies also increase the risk of premature births, and this further entails increased related adverse health outcomes for infants born through such conditions.

The next step would be to find out which group of men respond best to methods to prevent and treat sperm DNA damage, and to test these methods to prevent pregnancy complications," said Dr. Amelie Stenqvist, a lecturer at Lund University. According to this study, a significant message is put forward that paternal health assumes an important role in a successful pregnancy.

It focused its research on men, specifically whose sperm contained high levels of DNA fragmentation. For instance, some 20% to 30% of babies born via in vitro fertilization have fathers whose sperm contains damaged DNA. The DNA fragmentation index, an indicator to assess the percentage of DNA damage in sperm, indicated that when the percentage of sperm with a DFI above 30% was observed, they had almost no chance of resulting in natural conception. Even a DFI greater than 20% showed that the chances of getting pregnant are highly risky as the risk factor for pregnancy complications like preeclampsia is much high.

Uncommon Complications during Pregnancy

The most alarming complication during pregnancy is preeclampsia. It affects approximately 5% to 8% of pregnancies worldwide, which can cause fatal conditions for both the mother and the baby. The new findings now point out that sperm DNA damage may contribute to this condition, especially if it is due to assisted reproductive techniques such as IVF pregnancies. The research found that a DFI above 20% doubled the risk of preeclampsia from a mere 5% to almost 11% per.

Apart from causing preeclampsia, DNA fragmentation in sperm is also known to increase the risk for prematurity. Most premature babies experience respiratory, neurological, and developmental complications. Therefore, some degree of early intervention might be important for prospective parents.

Some of the rarer, though serious complications include placental abruption, which is the separation of the placenta from the uterine wall and intrauterine growth restriction, a condition by which the baby does not grow normally in the womb. These conditions though rare are potentially catastrophic both to the mother and the child. Results from this study may help in establishing the contribution of the father in such pregnancies.

Further study into sperm DNA damage is of urgent interest with regard to its consequences for pregnancy outcomes. According to Professor Aleksander Giwercman of Lund University in the field of Reproductive Medicine, "the analysis of DFI should be introduced as routine test in all fertility clinics.". "It could give answers to couples who are having difficulties with infertility, but our latest result also shows that DFI analysis can be a method to identify high-risk pregnancies, explained Giwercman.

For many, DNA fragmentation in sperm is often treatable. Common causes are oxidative stress, age, smoking, being obese, and infections. Addressing these elements will likely reduce DNA damage in sperm for men, raising the chances for a healthy pregnancy and baby.

Overall, the study importance should take into consideration paternal as well as maternal health towards reaching for a healthy pregnancy. Though DNA fragmentation in the sperm is supposed to increase the risk factors for complications in pregnancies, the advances into novel treatment approaches and tests are likely to alleviate complications in many families. Thus the findings of this study offer optimism and pave a pathway to more holistic fertility treatments in the future.

When people hear about oral cancer, they often think first of smoking or chewing tobacco. However, several other risks deserve attention, especially because people who have never used tobacco can still develop the disease.

Alcohol And Its Often-Overlooked Link To Oral Cancer

One of the least understood risk factors is alcohol consumption. Although alcohol is commonly linked to liver disease, its impact on oral cancer risk is also important.

Alcohol can damage the tissue lining of the mouth through the production of acetaldehyde, a chemical compound that interferes with the cells' ability to repair themselves. It can also dry and irritate the lining of the mouth, making it more vulnerable to other carcinogens. This risk increases with consistent, regular alcohol use. In combination with tobacco, alcohol can further increase the absorption of carcinogens into oral tissues.

Also read: Indian Doctors Find Safer Chemotherapy Regimen For Penile Cancer: Why It Matters

Areca Nut, HPV And Other Risks To Know

Areca nut is another important risk factor and is considered carcinogenic. It may be consumed as supari, gutkha or paan. Regular chewing can cause oral submucous fibrosis, a condition that causes progressive stiffness of the mouth and significantly increases the risk of oral cancer.

Human papillomavirus (HPV), particularly certain high-risk strains, is another recognised cause of throat and oropharyngeal cancers. Chronic irritation from sharp teeth, damaged dental crowns or ill-fitting dentures may also warrant attention.

Certain chronic inflammatory conditions of the mouth, such as oral lichen planus, can cause persistent lesions and require regular monitoring, particularly when symptoms or the appearance of the lesions change.

Why Sun Exposure Can Also Affect Oral Cancer Risk

Sun exposure is another lesser-known risk, particularly for lip cancer. People who work outdoors without adequate protection can accumulate significant UV exposure over many years.

Most importantly, the mouth should be monitored whenever something unusual appears. A mouth ulcer that persists for more than two weeks, red or white patches, unexplained bleeding, difficulty swallowing, numbness, or a lump in the mouth or neck should be evaluated by a doctor.

Quitting smoking remains crucial for cancer prevention, but protecting against oral cancer requires looking beyond tobacco and recognising the less obvious risks as well.

PMOS is often discussed mainly in connection with periods, hormonal changes and pregnancy. However, women’s health is much broader than fertility. Changes linked to hormonal health can also influence weight, energy levels, skin, hair, metabolism and emotional well-being.

This is why women should not focus only on whether their periods are regular or whether they are planning a pregnancy. Looking at overall health can help identify concerns early and support better long-term well-being.

PMOS can affect more than periods

Changes in the menstrual cycle may be one of the first signs that something needs attention, but they are not the only concern. Women may also notice changes in weight, acne, hair growth or hair thinning, tiredness and mood.

Persistent or unusual changes should not be ignored, even if a woman is not planning to have children. Speaking to a healthcare professional can help identify the possible cause and decide whether further evaluation is needed.

Also read: Ozempic, Wegovy & PMOS: How GLP-1 Drugs Are Changing PMOS Treatment?

Think beyond fertility

Fertility is an important part of women’s health, but it should not be the only focus. Women should also pay attention to their overall metabolic health, including blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol and weight when appropriate.

A balanced diet, regular physical activity, adequate sleep and maintaining a healthy weight can support better health. Medical care should also take into account age, lifestyle, family history and existing health conditions.

Mental health matters too

Hormonal and reproductive health concerns can affect emotional well-being. Worries about periods, weight, appearance or future fertility may contribute to stress, anxiety or low mood. Women should feel comfortable discussing these concerns with their doctor. Mental health is an important part of overall health and should be addressed along with physical symptoms.

How can women take better care of their health?

Women can start by tracking changes in their menstrual cycle and paying attention to other symptoms. Regular physical activity, nutritious food, adequate sleep and stress management can support overall well-being.

Those planning pregnancy should discuss their plans with a doctor in advance. However, even women who are not planning pregnancy should continue regular health monitoring.

Also read: From Insulin Resistance to Fertility: Understanding the Metabolic Side of PCOS

Tips for long-term health

• Keep track of menstrual changes and other symptoms.

• Maintain a balanced and nutritious diet.

• Stay physically active.

• Prioritise good sleep and stress management.

• Monitor blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol when advised.

• Do not ignore persistent hormonal or menstrual changes.

• Discuss fertility plans early with a healthcare professional.

• Pay attention to mental and emotional health.

PMOS should not be viewed only through the lens of periods or pregnancy. Women’s health also includes metabolic, hormonal, physical and emotional well-being. By looking beyond fertility, monitoring health regularly and making healthy lifestyle choices, women can take better care of themselves at every stage of life.

As men enter their 40s, paying attention to prostate health becomes increasingly important. The prostate is a small gland located just below the urinary bladder and surrounding the urethra. It plays an important role in the male reproductive system.

With advancing age, the prostate may undergo changes. One of the most common conditions is benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate. Although BPH is not cancer, it can cause troublesome urinary symptoms and significantly affect quality of life.

Prostate cancer is another important condition that men should be aware of, particularly as they grow older or if they have certain risk factors, such as a family history of prostate cancer.

Warning Signs Men Should Not Ignore

Urinary symptoms can have several causes, but persistent or worsening changes should not simply be attributed to ageing.

1. Frequent Urination

Needing to urinate more frequently than usual, particularly waking up several times at night to pass urine, may be associated with prostate enlargement or other urinary conditions. Repeated nighttime urination can also interfere with sleep and daily activities.

2. Difficulty Starting Urination

Hesitancy, difficulty initiating the urinary stream, a weak or interrupted flow, or needing to strain to urinate can occur when an enlarged prostate obstructs the urethra.

3. Feeling of Incomplete Bladder Emptying

If you frequently feel that your bladder has not emptied completely after urination, it is important to seek medical evaluation. Persistent incomplete emptying can sometimes lead to complications such as urinary retention or recurrent urinary infections.

Also read: Urine Leakage When You Cough, Sneeze Or Exercise? It Could Be Pelvic Floor Dysfunction, Say Experts

4. Urinary Urgency

A sudden, strong and difficult-to-control urge to urinate may indicate a prostate or bladder-related problem. Urgency, particularly when accompanied by increased frequency or leakage, deserves medical attention.

5. Blood in the Urine or Semen

Blood in the urine (haematuria) or semen (haematospermia) should never be ignored. Although infections, inflammation and other benign conditions can cause these symptoms, they may occasionally be associated with more serious urinary or reproductive tract disorders. Medical evaluation is therefore important.

6. Persistent Pelvic, Back or Hip Pain

Persistent pain in the pelvis, lower back, hips, or discomfort associated with urination should be assessed by a doctor, especially when it is unexplained or accompanied by other urinary symptoms.

When Should You See a Urologist?

Not every urinary symptom indicates prostate cancer. Conditions such as BPH, urinary tract infections, prostatitis, bladder disorders and certain medications can also cause similar symptoms. However, persistent, recurrent or progressively worsening urinary symptoms should not be self-diagnosed or dismissed as a normal part of ageing. Men in their 40s and beyond should consider discussing their prostate health with a urologist, particularly if they have:

• Persistent urinary symptoms
• A family history of prostate cancer
• A previous elevated PSA level
• Other risk factors for prostate cancer
• Blood in the urine or semen
• Persistent pelvic or lower back symptoms

Also read: Prostate Cancer: What's Fact, What's Fiction

Depending on the individual's age, symptoms, medical history and risk factors, evaluation may include a clinical examination, urine tests, PSA blood test, ultrasound or other appropriate imaging and, when indicated, further prostate assessment.

It is important to understand that an elevated PSA level does not automatically mean prostate cancer. PSA can increase for several reasons, including benign prostate enlargement, inflammation, infection and other prostate-related conditions. Your urologist can interpret the PSA result in the context of your overall risk profile and determine whether further evaluation is required.

Early Detection Can Make a Difference

Maintaining prostate health is an important part of overall men's health. A healthy lifestyle—including maintaining a healthy body weight, exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet, limiting tobacco and maintaining good metabolic health—can contribute to overall well-being.

Most importantly, know what is normal for you and pay attention to changes in your urinary or sexual health.

Urinary problems are not something men should simply accept as an inevitable consequence of ageing. Early medical evaluation can identify the underlying cause, provide appropriate treatment and, when necessary, help detect serious prostate conditions at an earlier stage.

Takeaway for Men Over 40

Don't ignore changes in your urinary habits. Don't self-medicate. Don't assume it's just ageing. If urinary symptoms persist or worsen, consult a urologist for appropriate evaluation and personalized advice. Your prostate health is an important part of your overall health—start paying attention to it today.