The effect of paternal age on fetal birth outcomes

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Perinatal Epidemiology
• Human Development

Background:

• Limited research exists on paternal age's role in adverse birth outcomes.
• Paternal age is an understudied factor in fetal development and infant health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between paternal age and adverse fetal birth outcomes.
• To assess risks for low birth weight, preterm birth, stillbirth, and small for gestational age based on father's age.

Main Methods:

• Population-based retrospective cohort study using Missouri maternally linked data (1989-2005).
• Examined seven paternal age-groups (<20, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-45, and >45 years).
• Utilized generalized estimating equation framework for analysis.

Main Results:

• Paternal age 40-45 increased stillbirth risk by 24% but reduced small for gestational age risk.
• Advanced paternal age (>45) associated with 48% higher late stillbirth risk.
• Advanced paternal age (>45) increased risks for low birth weight (19%), preterm birth (13%), and very preterm birth (29%).
• Paternal age 30-39 showed lower risks for adverse outcomes, while age <25 showed elevated risks.

Conclusions:

• Paternal age is a significant determinant of various adverse birth outcomes.
• Both advanced and very young paternal ages are linked to increased risks.
• Further research is warranted to understand the mechanisms and implications of paternal age on birth outcomes.