A influência da saúde paterna nos seus descendentes: Uma revisão bibliográfica

Abstract

Introduction: Paternal health has historically been less discussed compared to maternal health, but it plays a crucial role in the development of offspring. Factors such as advanced paternal age, genetics, and exposure to toxins can affect the genetic material of sperm, compromising fertility and increasing the risk of pregnancy complications, such as miscarriage and health issues in descendants. Objective: To investigate how paternal health, including genetic and environmental aspects, influences the health and development of offspring. Methodology: This is an integrative literature review. Searches were conducted in scientific databases such as BVS, LILACS, and PubMed, including articles published between 2019 and 2024, using keywords related to paternal health and fetal development. Articles in Portuguese and English that analyzed this relationship were selected. Results: The results showed that advanced paternal age, exposure to pollutants like PAHs, and factors such as obesity and stress affect children's health. Advanced paternal age is related to genetic mutations that increase the risk of autism, schizophrenia, and childhood cancers. High BMI and stress are also linked to neurodevelopmental problems. Conclusion: The findings highlight the need for more studies on paternal health, given its relevance to public health and understanding neuropsychiatric and congenital conditions. Factors such as advanced age, pollutants, alcohol consumption, and obesity affect the health of descendants. Paternal aging increases genetic mutations, making it essential to include paternal health in reproductive policies to protect future generations.