Researchers from Seattle reported late last year that the chance of a man having children after 35 years of age is less likely than prior to his 35th birthday. The researchers speculate that this "dip" in fertility is related to normal aging processes that lead to a decreased natural ability to weed out unhealthy sperm cells.
The researchers noted that the DNA from sperm of men over the age of 35 was more "damaged". This may mean that it is more likely that an abnormal sperm may fertilize and egg and the researchers speculate that this may be one reason for miscarriage or minor abnormalities. While the latter is quite speculative, the research did prompt
The American Society of Reproductive Medicine president, William Keye, to say "While there is nothing anyone can do about getting older, men who want to retain their own best capacity to father children should try to minimise contact with toxic agents and maintain a healthy lifestyle."
Source: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/2328909.stm
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14-Apr-03 A biological clock for men!
