Tejal Somvanshi
A recent study from Jagiellonian University reveals that fathers with daughters tend to live longer than those without – specifically adding 74 weeks to a father’s life for each daughter born.
The Research
Researchers at Jagiellonian University analyzed data from over 4,310 people (2,147 mothers and 2,163 fathers) to examine how having children affects parental longevity. The results showed a clear pattern: while sons had no measurable effect on fathers’ lifespans, daughters were linked to increased paternal longevity.
“The more daughters they have, the longer they live. To be precise, 74 weeks more for each daughter born,” the study reports.
Health Mechanisms
Several factors may explain this daughter-father longevity connection:
- Healthier Lifestyle Choices: Fathers with daughters often adopt better habits like improved nutrition and regular exercise.
- Stress Reduction: Daughters provide emotional support that can lower stress levels, with research showing fathers of daughters are less likely to engage in risky behaviors and more likely to seek medical care when needed.
- Emotional Support: The father-daughter bond creates a support system that improves both mental and physical health outcomes.
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Different Impact on Mothers
Interestingly, the health benefits don’t extend to mothers. According to separate research published in the American Journal of Human Biology, both sons and daughters may actually decrease maternal lifespan due to physical and emotional strains of childrearing.
Conflicting Research
Not all studies agree with these findings. One contradicting study conducted over 14 years found that having children, regardless of gender, increases lifespan for both parents compared to childless couples.
The Father-Daughter Connection
The unique bond between fathers and daughters appears to have physiological benefits beyond emotional fulfillment. This relationship often motivates fathers to prioritize health and well-being, potentially creating long-term habits that extend life.
The research sheds light on how family dynamics influence health outcomes, suggesting that close familial bonds—particularly between fathers and daughters—may be a key component of longevity.
