Fatherhood may accelerate aging, scientists say
Research shows that fatherhood is linked to accelerated aging in men due to sleep deprivation and stress, but in the long term, parents may live longer than childless individuals.
Having children causes significant physiological changes in men, including decreased testosterone and increased oxytocin, as well as brain restructuring. However, the early years of parenthood are accompanied by chronic sleep deprivation, stress, and financial difficulties, which raise cortisol levels and accelerate the shortening of telomeres—protective chromosome caps associated with aging. Despite this, data from Sweden shows that after age 60, parents have a lifespan advantage: for men, the difference is about two years. A possible explanation is social support from adult children. Researchers also note that the age at childbirth (24–38 years) and the number of children affect aging indicators: women with two to three children show the most favorable longevity indicators, while four or more children are associated with accelerated biological aging. The article references a publication in Science Focus and an analysis from the University of Helsinki in 2026.