Sunscreen may be tied to male fertility issues

In the latest study proving everything in the world is dangerous, researchers are warning about a possible link between sunscreen and male fertility problems. The scientists investigated urine-sample data from 500 couples trying to have kids.

They found that among couples taking the longest time to conceive, male partners had high levels of certain common sunscreen chemicals in their urine, FoxNews reports.

Specifically, the guys showed high concentrations of the ultraviolet filters BP-2 or 4OH-BP, which are also found in shampoos and moisturizers. As for women, those in the study "actually had greater exposure to the UV filters overall, but their exposure wasn’t associated with any significant pregnancy delays," researcher Germaine Louis says in an NIH press release.

Companies aren't legally required to list these chemicals in their products' ingredients, though lawmakers might take on the issue if further research confirms the findings, Louis says.

Meanwhile, she clarifies her message: "We definitely encourage people to continue using sunscreen to avoid skin cancer. But men who are concerned about fertility may be interested in other ways to reduce their exposure to benzophenone UV filters—whether by cutting back on other products that contain the UV filters or by washing after returning indoors."

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