Children Of Older Mothers Research Articles

Hijo de madre adolescente: riesgos, morbilidad y mortalidad neonatal

SUMMARY Background: Adolescent pregnancy is a public health problem because of the consequences for mother and child. Objective: To determine the characteristics and risks in adolescent mothers and their children's (anthropometry, birth status, morbidity and mortality) compared with a group of older mothers 20-34 years and control their children. Methods: Prospective cohort study with 379 children and 928 adult female adolescents. Data were analyzed using median, mean and dispersion measures, tests unpaired t-test or Wilcoxon rank-sum (Mann-Whitney test), ANOVA or Kruskal-Wallis, Chi2 or Fisher's exact, relative risk and attributable risk percentage exposure with confidence intervals of 95%. Results: Among adolescents there were more single mothers (25.6%), lower education and social health insurance (25.9%) (p<0.05). In early adolescents were more cases of preeclampsia (26.3%) and preterm labor (10.5%). Among teenage mothers, 30.9% of the children were premature, and had more heart disease, bacterial infections, syphilis, and congenital cleft lip and palate and higher mortality when compared with children of older mothers (p<0.05). Conclusions: Teenage motherhood carries greater health risks to themselves and their children, increasing

Assessing Estonian mothers’ involvement in their children’s education and trust in teachers

Questionnaires assessing mothers’ involvement in children’s education and their trust in teachers were developed for the usage in Estonian kindergartens and elementary schools. The scales were adapted based on the questionnaires by Fantuzzo and colleagues (parental involvement) and Adams and Christenson (trust). Mothers of 454 kindergarten children, 197 first‐ and second‐grade children, and 94 fourth‐ to sixth‐grade children participated in the study. Four subscales of involvement were differentiated: school‐based involvement, home–school conferencing, home‐based academic and home‐based general involvement. Trust was a unitary construct. The psychometric properties of the scales were good. Differences according to kindergarten and school levels were concordant with earlier studies – mothers of younger children generally reported higher involvement and trust than mothers of older children.

Risk Factors for Measles in Young Infants in an Urban African Area With High Measles Vaccination Coverage

We examined risk factors for measles infection before measles vaccination at 9 months of age in Guinea-Bissau. Among 1524 children enrolled in a trial of early measles vaccination at 4.5 months of age, we assessed the relative risk (RR) of measles before enrollment and the incidence rate ratio between 4.5 and 9 months of age for different groups. The incidence was high, with 4% having measles before 4.5 months and 10% having measles between 4.5 and 9 months of age. The main risk factor was the age of the mother; children of young mothers (age, 15-24 years) had lower antibody titers and higher risk of measles than children of older mothers both before 4.5 months (RR = 1.74 [1.02-2.96]) and between 4.5 and 9 months of age (incidence rate ratio = 1.59 [1.05-2.41]). Having no Bacillus Calmette-Guérin scar was associated with a higher risk of measles before 4.5 months of age (RR = 2.61 [1.54-4.45]). Children who were not breast-fed and had fever or respiratory infection at enrollment had a 2- to 4-fold higher risk of measles between 4.5 and 9 months of age. Young mothers transmit lower titers of antibodies to their children and an increasing proportion of infants become susceptible to measles before the age of measles vaccination.

Psychosocial aspects of oocyte donation in older couples

To summarize the recent studies addressing psychosocial aspects of advanced parental age in oocyte donation including treatment risks, motivations for participation, and impact on the children. It is recommended that women aged 45 and older have a rigorous medical screening before participation in oocyte donation, but the risk of pregnancy complications for that age group remains a concern. There is insufficient evidence to demonstrate that paternal age has an unfavorable impact on assisted reproduction outcomes. Although there are limited data on the effect of parental age on the psychological wellbeing of children conceived through assisted reproduction, a recent study found that children of older mothers appear to be thriving as well as children born to younger mothers. The trend toward delayed parenthood has resulted in a growing number of older couples entering oocyte donation programs. The literature has begun to address this phenomenon, but we need to learn more about psychosocial issues unique to older intended parents and their oocyte donation conceived children.

Health of children born to mothers aged 40 years or over, analyses of two national cohort studies

BackgroundIn the UK in 2005 there were 10 000 births to women aged 40 years or over. This phenomenon of delaying child birth is on the increase. There is a...

What is the nutritional status of children of obese mothers in South Africa?

Objective To evaluate the anthropometric status of children of obese (body mass index [BMI] ≥30 kg/m 2) mothers who participated during the 2005 National Food Consumption Study. Methods The survey population consisted of children 1–9 y of age and their mothers 16 to 35 y of age living in the same households ( n = 1532). A national sample of households was drawn, representative of all nine provinces and urban and rural areas. Trained fieldworkers measured the heights and weights of participants at their homes. Results The prevalence of obesity was high in the mothers (27.9%), particularly in the 26- to 35-y-old (older) group (32.3%) and in urban areas (29.1%). Children of older mothers had a significantly ( P < 0.05) higher mean height-for-age Z-score (−0.91) than those of younger mothers (16 to 25 y old, −1.06). Mean weight-for-age and weight-for-height Z-scores were significantly higher in children of obese women compared with those of non-obese women (BMI <30 kg/m 2, P < 0.001). Furthermore, obese mothers had significantly more overweight children than non-obese mothers ( P < 0.0001). Eighty-four percent of overweight children also had mothers with a BMI ≥25 kg/m 2 and 52% had mothers with a BMI ≥30 kg/m 2(∗ indicates statistical significance of confidence interval). Stunted mothers had a 1.5 times higher risk of being overweight (BMI ≥25 kg/m 2, odds ratio 1.45, confidence interval 1.06–2.01). Conclusion Overall, children of obese mothers had significantly higher mean Z-scores than those of mothers who were non-obese. Overweight and obese women were significantly less likely to have stunted or underweight children, whereas underweight women and stunted women were significantly more likely to have underweight and stunted children, respectively.

Perinatal and early life risk factors for inflammatory bowel disease

To investigate associations between perinatal risk factors and subsequent inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in children and young adults. Record linked abstracts of birth registrations, maternity, day case and inpatient admissions in a defined population of southern England. Investigation of 20 perinatal factors relating to the maternity or the birth: maternal age, Crohn's disease (CD) or ulcerative colitis (UC) in the mother, maternal social class, marital status, smoking in pregnancy, ABO blood group and rhesus status, pre-eclampsia, parity, the infant's presentation at birth, caesarean delivery, forceps delivery, sex, number of babies delivered, gestational age, birthweight, head circumference, breastfeeding and Apgar scores at one and five minutes. Maternity records were present for 180 children who subsequently developed IBD. Univariate analysis showed increased risks of CD among children of mothers with CD (P = 0.011, based on two cases of CD in both mother and child) and children of mothers who smoked during pregnancy. Multivariate analysis confirmed increased risks of CD among children of mothers who smoked (odds ratio = 2.04, 95% CI = 1.06-3.92) and for older mothers aged 35+ years (4.81, 2.32-9.98). Multivariate analysis showed that there were no significant associations between CD and 17 other perinatal risk factors investigated. It also showed that, for UC, there were no significant associations with the perinatal factors studied. This study shows an association between CD in mother and child; and elevated risks of CD in children of older mothers and of mothers who smoked.

Birth Prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorders in the San Francisco Bay Area by Demographic and Ascertainment Source Characteristics

Using standardized methods for multi-source surveillance, we calculated the prevalence of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) among children born in a racially diverse region in 1994 or 1996 as 4.7/1000 live births. Children with ASD before age 9 were identified through chart abstraction at health-related sources; three-quarters were being served by the state-wide Department of Developmental Services. In adjusted models, we found a male:female ratio of 6:1, a doubling of ASD prevalence among children of older mothers (40+), and lower prevalence with lower paternal education. Children of Black or Hispanic mothers had lower prevalence than those of White, non-Hispanic mothers, but these differences were attenuated after adjustment. Prevalence in children of Asian mothers was similar to Whites. Potential under-counting is discussed.

Autism spectrum disorders, maternal char vacteristics and obstetric complications among singletons born in Alberta, Canada

To determine whether certain maternal characteristics and obstetric complications are associated with increased risk of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in children. Provincial delivery records identified the cohort of 218 890 singleton live births in Alberta, Canada,between January 1, 1998, and December 31, 2004. These were followed-up for ASD via ICD-9 diagnostic codes assigned by physician billing until March 31, 2008. Maternal and obstetric risk factors were also extracted from PDR. Prevalence and incidence of ASD in Alberta are in line with those reported elsewhere and suggest recent increases in rate of diagnosis and/or incidence. Boys have 5-fold higher prevalence than girls. The peak age of diagnosis occurs at age 3 years. Relative risk modelling indicates that the risk of ASD is elevated among children of older mothers and those who experience specific pregnancy and birth complications. Certain maternal characteristics and obstetric complications are associated with ASD in children. We identified lower rates of ASD and later age at diagnosis among children of Aboriginal mothers that requires further research.

Does Maternal Age Affect Children's Test Scores?

Abstract We estimate the relationship between maternal age and child outcomes, using indices aimed at measuring overall outcomes, learning outcomes and social outcomes. In all cases, we find evidence that children of older mothers have better outcomes. Not only do children born to mothers in their twenties do better than children born to teen mothers, but children born to mothers in their thirties do better than children born to mothers in their twenties. However, when we control for other socioeconomic characteristics, such as family income, parental education and single parenthood, the coefficients on maternal age become small and statistically insignificant. The only exception is an index of social outcomes, which is positively associated with maternal age, even controlling for socioeconomic factors. For cognitive outcomes, young motherhood appears to be a marker, not a cause, of poor child outcomes.

Children of older mothers more likely to develop cancer

Children of older mothers more likely to develop cancer

Indicators of compliance for developmental follow-up of infants discharged from a regional NICU

To identify factors associated with compliance of scheduled outpatient developmental follow-up appointments in an effort to better ensure future care. This retrospective observational cohort study looked at patients born between January 7(th) 2006 and June 30(th) 2007 and discharged from a regional neonatal intensive care unit (RNICU). Discharge summaries were reviewed to attain information regarding 16 patient descriptives and 12 patient morbidities. Data were recorded and analyzed utilizing the statistical software SPSS 11.5. Children of older mothers were more likely to attend follow-up (compliant: 30 years vs. non-compliant: 27 years). Factors which significantly improved compliance with follow-up care were patient contact after discharge (compliant: 65% vs. non-compliant: 35%) and early intervention referral (compliant: 64% vs. non-compliant: 36%). Factors which significantly hindered compliance were maternal drug use during pregnancy (compliant: 11.8% vs. non-compliant: 88%), and patient transfer to outside NICUs [(transferred out: compliant: 3 (10.3%), non-compliant 25 (89.3%)]. Several factors associated with compliance have been identified. Direct patient contact after discharge positively correlated with improved follow-up attendance. The severity of patient disease in the NICU did not impact follow-up rates. As a result close attention needs to be paid to factors which influence compliance with outpatient follow-up for developmental screening.

Parental decisions and outcomes regarding disclosing maternal BRCA1 and 2 test results to children

9582 Background: BRCA1/2 testing is key to hereditary cancer risk management. Though testing is discouraged in children, prior work suggests they are informed of their tested mothers' mutation status; decisions and outcomes of parental disclosure to children remain largely unknown. Methods: We examined predictors of parental disclosure decisions to children ages 8–21 and related outcomes in a large clinical sample (221 tested mothers, 124 untested co-parents). Parents were interviewed prior to mothers' receipt of BRCA1/2 results and 1 and 6 months later. Descriptive analyses were conducted, and bivariate analyses identified candidate predictor variables (demographic, medical, psychosocial) for inclusion in multivariate logistic regression models. Results: 63% of mothers disclosed their results to their children within 1 month of receipt (44% of co-parents also disclosed to children); this increased to 68% by 6 months (55% among co-parents). Within parenting dyads, mothers were significantly more likely than co-parents to disclose to children in the short-term (X2=18.6, p&lt;.0001). Predictors of maternal disclosure to children included not being a BRCA1/2 mutation carrier, older child age, stronger intentions to disclose, more favorable attitudes toward pediatric BRCA1/2 testing, a more open parent-child communication history, and a decisional balance favoring disclosure (all p's&lt;.05). When examined simultaneously, mothers who were not mutation carriers (OR=4.02, 95% CI=1.35, 11.94), mothers of older children (OR=1.30, 95% CI=1.13, 1.49), and those with stronger intentions to disclose (OR=1.39, 95% CI=1.10, 1.76) were more likely to communicate. Other outcomes of maternal disclosure included greater satisfaction with the decision to disclose and more open parent-child communication following disclosure (all p's&lt;.05). Conclusions: This is the largest and most well-characterized study on this topic to date. Short-term rates of parental disclosure to children were high, increasing over time. Parental disclosure decisions are determined by a complex array of both child and parent factors, with some benefits identified with disclosure. Findings indicate a need for additional work, including decision support interventions for communication with children. No significant financial relationships to disclose.

The role of early life variables on the risk of fractures from birth to early adolescence: a prospective birth cohort study

SummaryIn a prospective cohort from Brazil, we evaluated the incidence of fractures from birth to early adolescence and examined risk factors for fractures. The incidence was 14.2% (95%CI 13.2, 15.2). Male sex, birth length, and maternal age at delivery were positively associated with the risk of fractures.IntroductionThis study aims to evaluate the incidence of fractures from birth to 11 years of age and to explore the effect of early life variables on the risk of fractures.MethodsAll children (N = 5,249) born in 1993 in the city of Pelotas, Brazil were enrolled in a prospective birth cohort study. In 2004–2005, 87.5% of the cohort members were sought for a follow-up visit. History of fractures, including anatomic site and age of the fracture were asked to mothers.ResultsThe incidence of fractures from birth to 11 years of age was 14.2% (95%CI 13.2, 15.2). Out of the 628 subjects who experienced a fracture, 91 reported two and only 20 reported three or more fractures. Male sex, birth length, and maternal age at delivery were positively associated with the risk of fractures. No consistent associations were found for family income, maternal body mass index, smoking during pregnancy, and birth weight.ConclusionsBirth length seems to have long-term effect on musculoskeletal health. The higher risk of fractures among children of older mothers needs to be confirmed by other studies. In accordance to the developmental origins of diseases, fractures seem to be, at least in part, programmed in early life.

Parenting Stress in Mothers and Fathers of Toddlers with Autism Spectrum Disorders: Associations with Child Characteristics

Elevated parenting stress is observed among mothers of older children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), but little is known about parents of young newly-diagnosed children. Associations between child behavior and parenting stress were examined in mothers and fathers of 54 toddlers with ASD (mean age = 26.9 months). Parents reported elevated parenting stress. Deficits/delays in children's social relatedness were associated with overall parenting stress, parent-child relationship problems, and distress for mothers and fathers. Regulatory problems were associated with maternal stress, whereas externalizing behaviors were associated with paternal stress. Cognitive functioning, communication deficits, and atypical behaviors were not uniquely associated with parenting stress. Clinical assessment of parental stress, acknowledging differences in parenting experiences for mothers and fathers of young children with ASD, is needed.

Immunisation coverage among under-five Sudanese children

Objectives: This article explores the hypothesis that predisposing and enabling factors of households influence the vaccination status of their children under five years of age in Khartoum State of Sudan. Design and participants: The study was a cross-sectional survey among a representative sample of 410 males and females children under five years of age from both urban and rural localities in the state with varying socio-economic status of their households and educational levels of their mothers. Results: The correct vaccination coverage rate for children was found to be high. Children in urban and rural areas differed substantially in their correct vaccination rates and their receipt of each vaccine separately. Walking or travelling time to the place of vaccination was found to be longer in rural areas when compared with urban areas. The vaccination rate increased with an increase in the age of the children and the education level of the mother. Children of older mothers were more likely to have had the correct vaccinations. The mothers’ knowledge of and attitudes to vaccination showed a strong relationship with the vaccination status of their children. When the coverage rate for each vaccine was taken separately, the economic level of the households significantly affected only the BCG vaccine coverage. Most vaccinations occurred in public outlet agencies. Conclusion: The large differences found in vaccination coverage by place of residence and level of mother’s education suggest that much greater efforts on the part of the government are required if better rates of correct vaccination are to be achieved in rural areas.

Factors influencing immunisation coverage among children under five years of age in Khartoum State, Sudan

AbstractBackgroundThis article explores the hypothesis that predisposing and enabling factors of households influence the vaccination status of the children under the age of five in Khartoum State, Sudan.MethodThe study was a cross-sectional survey among a representative sample of 410 male and female children under five years of age from households with varying socio-economic status and mothers with varying levels of education, from both urban and rural localities in the state.ResultsThe correct vaccination coverage rate for children was found to be high. Children in urban and rural areas differed substantially in their correct vaccination rates and their receipt of each vaccine separately. Walking or travelling time to the place of vaccination was found to be longer in rural areas when compared with urban areas. The vaccination rate increased with an increase in the age of the children and the education level of the mother. Children of older mothers were more likely to have had the correct vaccinations. ...

Pathways to Intergenerational Adolescent Childbearing in a High‐Risk Sample

Previous research indicates that children of adolescent mothers are more likely to experience an adolescent birth than are children of older mothers. Using a longitudinal sample of 293 high‐risk mothers and their 19‐year‐old children, we investigated mediators of the intergenerational pattern of adolescent childbearing. Results from multigroup path models indicate that the intergenerational effect is (a) significant for children of unmarried mothers above and beyond mother’s prebirth socioeconomic status and education level, (b) fully mediated through early sexual intercourse related to presence of a father figure and early home environment for girls, and (c) partially mediated by early physical development for boys. Relation of findings to current models of early sexual behavior and childbearing is discussed.

Belated entry: Gender differences and similarities in the pattern of nontraditional college enrollment

Building on research showing that the incidence of late or nontraditional entry into higher education is influenced by both individuals’ needs and resources, we examine possible gender differences in its pattern. Our event history analysis using the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth data shows the importance of employment- and family-related factors in illuminating gender differences and similarities in the correlates of nontraditional college enrollment. Specifically, work experience is significantly and negatively associated with men’s nontraditional college entry, while no comparable effect of experience exists for women. Divorce promotes only women’s nontraditional enrollment, and the gender difference in this effect is significant in case of entry into four-year institutions. The presence of preschoolers adversely affects women’s attendance at two- and four-year institutions and men’s attendance at four-year institutions. However, mothers of older children, unlike fathers, are more likely to experience nontraditional entry, while their educational destinations are limited to two-year institutions.

My child is not my carer: mothers with physical disabilities and the well‐being of children

This article describes a qualitative study on the experiences of mothers with physical disabilities. Two focus groups were held for mothers with young children and mothers of older children. Eight mothers also participated in in‐depth interviews. All have a physical impairment, most are wheelchair users. This article focuses on (a) participants' attempts to ensure the physical and psychological well‐being of their children; (b) their child‐rearing philosophies and practices; and (c) the overall nature of the parent‐child relationship. A range of parenting practices, experiences and relationships was reported. The variability of experiences notwithstanding, participants' life stories demonstrate a strong commitment to children, actions to ensure their care and well‐being, and attempts to shield them from any burden related to the maternal disability. Whilst challenges and barriers were candidly reported, by and large, they do not overshadow the joy and fulfilment that these women derive from motherhood.