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Increasing trend in the monozygotic twinning rate.
W M Bressers1, A W Eriksson, P J Kostense
1Institute of Human Genetics, Medical Faculty, Free University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Acta Geneticae Medicae Et Gemellologiae
|January 1, 1987
Summary
The monozygotic twinning rate (MZTR) has increased since the 1960s, especially where oral contraceptives (OC) are common. Other factors also influence twinning rates, necessitating further research into reproductive trends.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Epidemiology
- Human Genetics
- Demography
Background:
- The incidence of monozygotic twinning (MZ) has shown recent changes across European populations.
- Understanding these trends is crucial for reproductive health research and demographic analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe recent changes in the estimated incidence of monozygotic twinning (MZTR) in 15 European populations.
- To investigate potential factors influencing these observed trends in MZTR.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of estimated monozygotic twinning rates (MZTR) across 15 European populations.
- Correlation of MZTR trends with the usage patterns of oral contraceptives (OC) and other potential influencing factors.
Main Results:
- An overall increase in MZTR was observed since the 1960s, particularly in countries with high oral contraceptive (OC) use.
- Countries with low OC use showed a slower increase or decrease in MZTR.
- Some countries exhibited sharp increases predating widespread OC use, suggesting multifactorial influences.
Conclusions:
- Oral contraceptive (OC) use appears to be a significant factor associated with increased monozygotic twinning rates (MZTR) in Europe.
- Other factors, including toxic agents, pelvic infections, ovulation inducers, neuroleptics, and changes in perinatal death registration, may also influence MZTR.
- Further research is warranted to fully elucidate the complex etiology of changing monozygotic twinning rates.