Late marriage, the stresses of modern life, and low sperm counts are contributing factors to the rising number of infertility cases in Malaysia. Currently, around 300,000 young couples aged 20–40 in the country are facing infertility issues.
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| Low sperm counts are contributing factors to the rising number of infertility cases (Photo: VNN) |
Malaysia’s Minister of Health, Chua Soi Lek, stated that the increase in infertility cases could be a leading cause of the declining birth rate in Malaysia.
According to Malaysia’s Department of Statistics, the birth rate in the country dropped to 19.6 live births per 1,000 people in 2005, down from over 20 live births per 1,000 people in 2004.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that in 2002, there were 80 million people worldwide suffering from infertility, with an estimated 10% of couples affected by infertility.
Dr. Chua noted that among the 450 obstetricians and gynecologists currently practicing in Malaysia, only about 40 doctors have received training in reproductive assistance. This indicates that there is only one infertility specialist for every 7,500 infertile couples in Malaysia.
Minister Chua predicted that the demand for infertility treatment services in Malaysia would significantly increase, as there are currently only 3 public centers and 20 private centers offering in vitro fertilization (IVF) services in the country.
To meet the demand for infertility treatment in Malaysia, the Tropicana Medical Center (TMC) has begun construction. This infertility treatment center is set to open in 2008 and will specialize in obstetrics and gynecology.
Minh Thương
