India Needs Evidence-Based Fertility Research, Says UK Expert Prof. Roy Homburg

Hyderabad: Prof, a well-known fertility expert from the United Kingdom. Roy Homburg said India faces a critical need for evidence-based fertility research as its vast ethnic and genetic diversity presents unique reproductive challenges.

To talk Deccan Chronicle On the sidelines of a conference here, Prof. Homburg said: “Significant gaps remain in India due to limited infrastructure and funding. However, adopting best practices from other countries, such as the UK, can help close these gaps. In the UK, as people increasingly seek information online, specialized fertility associations are running unique campaigns and creating dedicated websites to raise awareness.”

When discussing research ideas, she said she might focus on whether diabetes affects women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and whether it contributes to infertility. Dr. Homburg has published more than 330 research articles, book chapters, and 14 books.

Prof. Homburg explained that the causes of infertility differ between Indian and British women. “In India, factors such as adulterated food, pollution and use of plastic affect ovarian health, while in the UK, women often postpone pregnancy for career reasons and it becomes more difficult to get pregnant after the age of 37. In India, fertility problems usually occur after the age of 31 or 32,” he said.

Making a witty comment about changing social trends, he added: “It’s almost impossible to persuade the next generation, especially Gen Z, to get married. I doubt couples even get married in the UK anymore,” he laughed.

While there are more than 30 million couples affected by infertility in India, Prof. Homburg said there is a tremendous opportunity to deepen understanding and develop effective treatments that will give hope to millions. “Fertility research is both intellectually stimulating and personally rewarding because it directly improves lives and families,” he said.