New research reveals that being a father may increase the risk of poor heart health later in life. Conducted by scientists at Northwestern University and Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, the study indicates significant health implications, especially for men of color.
The study, involving 2,814 men aged 45 to 84, assessed cardiovascular health based on diet, physical activity, smoking habits, weight, blood pressure, and blood levels of lipids and glucose. Results showed that fathers had worse cardiovascular health compared to nonfathers.
“The changes in heart health suggest that the added responsibility of childcare and the stress of transitioning to fatherhood may make it difficult for men to maintain a healthy lifestyle,” explained Dr. John James Parker, the study’s corresponding author and assistant professor at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.
Published on June 4 in the journal AJPM Focus, the study underscores the necessity of considering fathers as a unique population to track health outcomes related to fatherhood. Parker emphasized the importance of modifiable health behaviors and factors for cardiovascular health.
Fathers’ Health and Mortality Rates
Interestingly, despite poorer heart health, fathers in the study exhibited lower death rates than nonfathers. Parker attributes this to a more robust social support system and the likelihood of having someone to assist with medical needs as they age. Additionally, fathers reported lower rates of depressive symptoms, which could contribute to their lower mortality rates.
The research included men identifying as Black, Chinese, Hispanic, or White. Notably, the age-adjusted death rate for Black fathers was lower than for Black nonfathers, suggesting a potentially protective effect of fatherhood for Black men. Parker suggested that further study could reveal significant public health implications.
Impact of Early Fatherhood
The study also found that men who became fathers before age 25 had worse heart health. Younger fathers, particularly Black and Hispanic men, faced greater health challenges and higher death rates, indicating a need for targeted clinical and public health interventions.
“Younger fathers may face financial instability, less mature decision-making capabilities, and job-related stresses that can hinder their ability to focus on health,” Parker noted. He highlighted the lack of public health interventions for young fathers, contrasting with the support available for young mothers.
Broader Implications for Family Health
The study stresses the importance of considering fathers’ health in the broader context of family well-being. “The health of fathers has a major influence on their families,” Parker said, referencing research linking parental obesity rates. He called for a holistic approach to family health, considering the interrelationships among all family members.
One surprising finding was the higher smoking rate among older fathers, despite evidence that many men quit smoking upon becoming parents. Parker suggested that stress might lead some fathers to resume smoking later in life, highlighting the need for focused interventions.
Study Methodology
Participants’ cardiovascular health was defined using the American Heart Association Life’s Essential 8 scores, excluding sleep. Men were categorized as fathers (82% of participants) or nonfathers based on interviews regarding their children’s ages and medical conditions.
Identifying the connections between fatherhood and health outcomes could lead to significant public health improvements, particularly for men of color, according to the study’s scientists.
Related topics:
- Lower Back Pain: Causes, Symptoms & Management
- Dealing with Severe Sun Poisoning: A Comprehensive Guide
- Life After a Massive Stroke: What to Expect
