Tuesday, September 2, 2008

Research News: Bipolar disorder in children linked to older fathers

The News:
Bipolar disorder in children linked to older fathers
A new study says the risks start increasing around age 40 and are strongest in men 55 and older. The top theory is that sperm likely mutates as men age.
By Lindsey Tanner, The Associated Press
Article Last Updated: 09/01/2008 10:56:09 PM MDT
CHICAGO — Children born to older fathers face a greater chance of developing bipolar disorder, according to one of the largest studies linking mental illness with advanced paternal age. Previous research has connected schizophrenia and autism with older dads, and a Danish study published last year added bipolar disorder to the list. The new study led by researchers at Sweden's Karolin ska Institute strengthens the evidence. The leading theory is that older men's sperm may be more likely to develop mutations. Even so, the chances of a person becoming bipolar are so low that the study's authors said it shouldn't dissuade older men from becoming fathers.

The Research:
Read the research behind this story in the Archives of General Psychiatry.

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Aaarrhh! Yet another slur against those venerable & experienced Men o' the World! I've been hardened by my years... no whupped puppy of a boy pretending that mere breeding makes one a proper Father.
The pox on these scurvy dogs!

c-rat