Number of children affects lifespan of mothers
A new study suggests that the number of children a woman has might affect her rate of ageing and her lifespan. Research from the University of Helsinki in Finland found that women who had five children or more, or no children, aged faster than those who had a small number of kids. Researcher Mikaela Hukkanen said: "From an evolutionary biology perspective, organisms have limited resources, such as time and energy. When a large amount of energy is invested in reproduction, it is taken away from bodily maintenance and repair mechanisms, which could reduce lifespan." She added that the finding of shorter lifespans of women who never gave birth was "surprising".
The researchers used historical data in their analysis of parenthood and ageing. They analysed the health data on 14,836 women. Researchers examined DNA data and blood samples, then modelled the effects of reproduction on women's rates of ageing and longevity. Ms Hukkanen postulated that having a smaller number of pregnancies could have favourable effects on a mother's health. One benefit is a possible lower risk of breast and ovarian cancer. However, the "wear and tear" and physical demands of multiple childbirths can negate this lowered risk. Another factor that could increase longevity is the increased social support a mother receives from the state for having children.
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study / children / mother / ageing / evolutionary / biology / energy / reproduction / parenthood / health data / DNA / blood samples / cancer / longevity / childbirth
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Discussion
1) What's the best number of children to have?
2) What do you think of the cost of having children?
3) Why are people having fewer children in many countries?
4) What are the benefits of having children?
5) What do you know about evolutionary biology?
6) What link do you think there is between childbirth and longevity?
7) What effect do you think children have on fathers' longevity?
8) How can governments encourage people to have more children?
