Scientists have discovered how a father's health affects his child before conception

The study shows that not only the genes passed on by the father are important, but also his lifestyle.

The baby's future can be affected by:

• being overweight
• smoking and alcohol
• age
• stress level
• even the living conditions during the man's childhood

These factors can affect the quality of the sperm and therefore the development of the embryo.

Details

Scientists emphasise that the father's influence begins long before pregnancy.

And it is not only about biology.

A man's lifestyle can also influence indirectly - for example, on the health and behaviour of his partner during pregnancy.

In some cases, the father's influence is even more noticeable than expected.

Why it matters

Traditionally, the focus has mainly been on a woman's health. But a new study shows: that's not enough.

If men's health is also taken into account, you can:

• reduce the risk of complications
• improve child development
• improve the overall health of future generations

Scientists call for a change in approach: both parents should prepare for the birth of a child.

Men's health is not a secondary factor, but an important part of the future child even before conception.

Source

The study is published in The Lancet and is based on data from biology, medicine and social sciences.