The Iranian news site Rooidad 24 has published a report titled "Air Pollution and Hidden Statistics of Abortions and Stillbirths in Iran," highlighting alarming data from the Ministry of Health about the country's fertility status. The report indicates that air pollution and the burning of mazut (heavy fuel oil) significantly contribute to the rising risks of miscarriages and stillbirths.

According to data from the governmental system known as "Healthy Fertility," from the beginning of 2024 until December 6, over 683,615 births were registered in Iran, with a total of 50,744 abortions during the same period. Of these, a concerning 39,297 (over 77%) were spontaneous abortions. Additionally, there were 4,709 stillbirths, accounting for 0.71% of total births.

Mohammad Kazem Attari, a medical doctor and social medicine researcher, emphasized the overwhelming scientific evidence connecting air pollution to these outcomes. Official reports indicate that over two million liters of mazut are burned daily across more than 15 cities in Iran, with these pollutants directly affecting people's lungs, including pregnant women.

While Attari acknowledges that the Ministry of Health recognizes air pollution as a significant risk factor on paper, he points out that it does not hold serious weight in reproductive health policies. He criticizes the lack of targeted warnings regarding air quality, suggesting that this reflects a disregard for the health of pregnant women, who are among the most vulnerable groups. Instead of specific alerts, only general warnings are issued on heavily polluted days, attributed to a lack of planning, infrastructure, and budget allocation rather than a lack of scientific knowledge.