Oxford Study Links Heat Exposure to Decline in Male Births

A study conducted by researchers at the University of Oxford, published on February 23, 2026, reveals a connection between high temperature exposure during pregnancy and a decline in male births. The report, titled "Temperature Sex Ratio Birth," was released by the university's Department of Sociology.

It indicates that extreme heat, exacerbated by climate change, influences population patterns and gender balance. The lead author, Dr.

Jasmin Abdel Ghani, noted that while extreme heat is not currently a major public health threat, it is shaping human reproduction. The research suggests that the reduction in male births may reflect limited access to sex-selective abortions, which temporarily narrows gender imbalances.

The study predicts that by 2050, nearly double the global population will live in extreme heat conditions, with significant increases expected in countries like Nigeria, India, and Indonesia. Dr.

Jesu Lizana, an associate professor of engineering science at Oxford, emphasized the need for early adaptation measures, such as installing air conditioning, as global temperatures continue to rise.