Chemical Pollution Linked to Rising Men’s Health Risks in Europe, Report Warns

A new report from the Health and Environment Alliance (HEAL) highlights growing evidence that chemical pollution is contributing to a worsening men’s health crisis across Europe. According to the analysis, exposure to industrial and agricultural chemicals, including endocrine-disrupting substances, is associated with increased risks of testicular cancer, infertility, sexual dysfunction, and hormonal disorders. The report also links chemical exposure to prostate cancer, now the third most frequently diagnosed cancer among men.

Beyond immediate health effects, the findings suggest that chemical pollution can have long-term consequences for future generations. Both paternal and maternal exposure to harmful chemicals have been connected to reproductive and developmental disorders in male offspring.

HEAL stresses that widespread human exposure occurs through air, water, food, and everyday consumer products, many of which remain insufficiently regulated. The authors argue that stronger, science-based policies—such as reforms to the EU’s REACH chemicals regulation—are crucial to reducing exposure, safeguarding public health, and preventing further reproductive harm in coming generations.

22-12-2025