A mother's history of eating disorders linked to risk of lung problems in their children
Women who have had an eating disorder are more likely to have children who have asthma or other lung problems in childhood, according to international researchers who say this builds on existing research showing a link between maternal mental health problems and respiratory conditions. The team used data from over 130,000 mother-child pairs to investigate links between preschool wheezing and school-age asthma in the children and a history of an eating disorder for their mothers. The researchers say the link between a mother's eating disorder and their child's risk of lung problems could not be explained by other mental health problems such as anxiety or depression, and there was no clear pattern suggesting the timing of an eating disorder before a pregnancy influenced the risk.
The study, which analyzed data from over 130,000 mother-child pairs, adds to a growing body of evidence linking maternal mental health to the respiratory health of their offspring. The research team investigated connections between preschool wheezing and school-age asthma in children and a history of eating disorders in their mothers.
The findings reveal that children whose mothers had a history of an eating disorder were more prone to developing lung problems. This connection remained even after researchers accounted for other potential contributing factors, such as maternal anxiety and depression. This suggests that the link between a mother's eating disorder and the child's respiratory health is independent of other common mental health challenges.
Interestingly, the study did not find a specific time frame in which the mother's eating disorder impacted the child's risk. Whether the eating disorder occurred before, during, or after pregnancy didn't seem to significantly alter the likelihood of the child developing respiratory problems.
While the study highlights a concerning correlation, further research is needed to understand the underlying mechanisms driving this association. Experts suggest that factors such as prenatal nutrition, genetic predispositions, and even the mother-child bond could play a role. These findings underscore the importance of comprehensive maternal healthcare, including addressing mental health concerns like eating disorders, to promote the well-being of both mother and child. Further investigation into this link could lead to improved preventative measures and interventions for families at risk.