Did you know that a recent study by the Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research (SRH) in 2023 revealed that a staggering 1 in 6 people worldwide suffer from infertility? But there is no regional difference in this number, debunking prior beliefs. As Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General at the World Health Organization (WHO), accurately puts it: "The report reveals an important truth: infertility does not discriminate” (2023).
Infertility has emerged as a global health problem, unaffected by external factors (SRH, 2023). This alarming reality underscores the pressing need for education, support, and improved access to fertility treatments on a global scale.
Recognizing the gravity of this issue, RESOLVE, The National Infertility Association, was founded in 1979. Their mission is clear: to empower individuals navigating their family-building journey through knowledge, community support, advocacy, and inspiration to take action (About RESOLVE | Niaw Resolve, n.d.).
While solutions like artificial insemination and IVF offer hope to those with unfulfilled desires for parenthood, access to these treatments remains a challenge. In many countries, individuals affected by infertility bear the financial burden themselves, with the costs of IVF often exceeding the average annual income (WHO, 2023).
To shed light on infertility and foster a sense of community and support for those affected, RESOLVE organizes National Infertility Awareness Week (NIAW) every April. This year, from April 21st to 27th, NIAW aims to empower individuals to share their stories and break the silence surrounding infertility. Through both offline and online initiatives, NIAW seeks to raise awareness, facilitate connections, provide support, and offer valuable resources to those affected.
One of their signature initiatives is #WearOrange, inviting participants to get dressed in the color orange to symbolize hope, warmth, and resilience in the face of infertility challenges.
So, why the color orange?
Studies show that orange promotes emotional wellness, boosts confidence, and fosters a sense of community and understanding (#WearOrange | Niaw Resolve, n.d.). This year, MedITEX is proud to stand in solidarity with RESOLVE by joining #WearOrange. Our CEO Michael and his trusty companion, Carlo, are proudly sporting orange attire to support this worthy cause. Will you join us in raising awareness and showing support for those affected by infertility? Wear orange and make a difference! 🧡 #NIAW #InfertilityAwareness #MedITEXSupportsNIAW
Sources:
About RESOLVE | Niaw resolve. (n.d.). Niaw Resolve. https://www.infertilityawareness.org/about-resolve.
Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research (SRH). (2023, 3. April). Infertility prevalence Estimates, 1990–2021. https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/978920068315.
#WearOrange | Niaw Resolve. (n.d.). Niaw Resolve. https://www.infertilityawareness.org/wearorange.
World Health Organization: WHO. (2023, April 4th). 1 in 6 people globally affected by infertility: WHO. https://www.who.int/. Retrieved on April 23th 2024, from https://www.who.int/news/item/04-04-2023-1-in-6-people-globally-affected-by-infertility.
