Scientists have discovered that women living in the Gulf region of the Middle East with infertility issues are likely to have a hormonal imbalance problem as the major cause. In fact the research also found that half of all women are at risk.

Called Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) the disorder is a common problem among women with infertility issues. However what surprised the researchers is the scale of the problem in the Gulf region compared to other parts of the world where PCOS is only found in about 12% to 15% of the female population.

One researcher believes that increased intake of junk food and a decreased amount of exercise is the primary reason behind the alarming figure. Dr. Khalil, an infertility expert told reporters: “I initially suspected that this is present only among the Emiratis, but then I found out that women from different backgrounds who were born and raised here have the same (predisposition).”

He added: “I reckon it is the environment, the heat, the type of food and the lack of physical activity that’s contributing in the genes.”

Dr. Khalil also pointed out that PCOS is also related to diabetes, often caused by being overweight. This particular disorder is also on the rise in the region.

“PCOS can sometimes later in life show an abnormal diabetic tendency,” he said.

He also suggests that patients should attend a clinic with a proven track record as the longer people wait, the longer the infertility problem persists and the less chance of overcoming the issue.

In general, while there are many reasons why infertility is on the increase across the world, lifestyle is fast becoming a major factor, not to mention environmental issues such as water pollution.