UK fertility regulator launches new fertility data dashboard

HFEA, the UK fertility regulator has launched a new fertility data dashboard which is thought to be the first of its kind in the world.

The Human Fertility and Embryology Authority (HFEA) launched its new data dashboard yesterday. The HFEA holds information on fertility treatments, patients, partners, donors and children born as a result of these treatments in the UK, which is believed to be the longest running database of its kind in the world.

With data going back over 30 years, to 1991, the dashboard will no doubt be a resource for clinicians, researchers and journalists. The dashboard offers access to  customisable UK-wide data based on age, IVF treatment, as well as success rates (including particular groups, or by a UK nation or region) which is accessible on the HFEA website.

Visitors to the dashboard are able to break down data on fertility treatments, birth rates and egg freezing and thawing information, by type of treatment, age and location.

To help users navigate the new dashboard, a short ‘how to’ video tutorial here has been published.

Peter Thompson, Chief Executive of the HFEA, said:

“The HFEA has collected data on all IVF and donor insemination treatments performed in the UK since 1 August 1991. In recent years, there are more than 70,000 fertility treatments a year.

As the fertility sector has progressed over the past 30 years, so too has the opportunity to improve how we present and share data. Our new data dashboards mark the next step in even greater information transparency.

For researchers, finding out vital data about fertility treatment in the UK previously meant submitting enquiries one by one. The launch of the dashboard will ensure our wealth of data can be used to gain further insight which could, in turn, improve outcomes for all.”

Click here to access the dashboard