Preconception Health Behavioral Patterns and Predictors in Chinese Reproductive-Aged Men: A Latent Profile Analysis

Preconception health behaviors significantly influence pregnancy outcomes, yet patterns of these behaviors and their determinants have received limited attention, particularly among men. Understanding behavioral profiles is essential for developing targeted interventions to improve paternal reproductive health. We conducted a cross-sectional study examining over 20 guideline-recommended preconception health behaviors among 952 Chinese men. Latent profile analysis was utilized to identify different behavioral profiles. Multinomial logistic regressions assessed associations of profile membership with sociodemographic and medical history characteristics. Four distinct preconception health behavioral profiles were identified: a "Moderate" profile (44.0%) with scores near or slightly above the overall mean on most behaviors; a "Vulnerable" profile (4.5%) showing markedly negative scores across multiple behaviors; and two intermediate profiles "Unmotivated" (33.2%) and "At-Risk" (18.3%) with scores closer to average on some behaviors but notably lower on others (e.g., planning, avoidance of environmental hazards and domestic violence, treating existing diseases). Several behaviors received low scores across all profiles, including preconception check-ups, genetic screening, receiving professional preconception education, physical activity, and immunization. Lower education and unplanned pregnancy were consistently associated with at-risk behavioral profiles. Interventions must combine universal campaigns to elevate systematically neglected behaviors with targeted strategies addressing profile-specific needs. Pregnancy planning emerges as a keystone intervention opportunity. National programs require rebranding to emphasize paternal participation, while all strategies must address underlying social determinants rather than focusing solely on individual behavior change.