Module 3S1 Reproductive Systems

2.3.5S1 page 4

Lesson Summary

In Lesson 5 you investigated the following focusing questions:

• How do diseases and sexually transmitted infections compromise structural fertility?

Given the many possible problems that can occur in human reproductive systems, it is amazing that healthy babies are born every day. Humans are constantly affected by structural and hormonal problems due to STIs and other disorders, sometimes without even knowing it. Yet the species continues. There are now more than six billion human beings on the planet! Our reproductive strategy is obviously working. Or should it be said that it has been working?

Human reproduction may now be on the decline. In 1960, the world fertility rate was six children per woman. Today, the rate is three children per woman. Although there are many reasons for reduced fertility rates, estimates state that over 300 million people contract new sexually transmitted infections every year and over 5 million people become infected with HIV every year

Young Canadians in your age group have some of the highest rates of STIs in the country. STIs are not only passed between sexual partners but can also be spread from mother to child during childbirth and breastfeeding. Many STIs are lifelong infections with little to no treatment options.

While cancer is not transmitted through the sharing of body fluids, like STIs it is a disorder that affects fertility and is on the rise. The World Health Organization (WHO) states that global cancer rates could increase by 50% to 15 million by 2020. Even though these numbers are for all types of cancers, because they include reproductive cancers, it can be assumed that reproductive cancers are also on the rise. WHO further states that up to 23 percent of malignancies in developing countries are caused by infectious agents, including hepatitis B and C viruses and human papillomaviruses. These can lead to cervical cancer. Developed countries, like Canada, have a much higher cervical cancer detection rate than underdeveloped countries. As a result, women in developed countries are less likely to die from this disease. One tool used for early detection and treatment of cervical cancer is the PAP smear. Women are encouraged by their doctors to have a PAP smear every year.

To maintain your overall health, your chance to have a baby, and the safety of any future sexual partners, it is imperative that you understand the facts surrounding STIs and make good choices regarding your reproductive health.