Offspring depression linked to Paternal depression via intergenerational transmission

There is a 42% higher risk of subsequent development of depression in the offspring from paternal depression due to the intergenerational transmission of mental health problems. This suggests the importance of addressing maternal and paternal mental health issues in a family focussed approach. 

The study results were published in the journal JAMA Network Open on August 16, 2023. 

As per the neurodevelopmental theory of depression, factors emerging earlier in life are associated with an increased risk of developing depressed symptoms later in life. Due to the combined influence of genetics and the developmental environment, paternal depression is one of the potential risk factors for increased risk of offspring depression. Though the association between maternal depression and offspring depression is thoroughly researched, there is not much literature on the role of paternal depression and its influence on the offspring. 

Hence researchers from Australia conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies examining the association between paternal and offspring depression. By searching various databases from inception and December 2022, all observational studies that investigated the association between paternal and offspring depression were considered. Of these 10,606 studies were initially identified. PRISMA protocols were followed, and offspring depression was measured using recognized depression assessment tools as the main outcome of measurements. Summary odds ratios (ORs) and 95% CIs were pooled using inverse variance weighted random effect meta-analysis. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were performed. 

Study findings: 

• Sixteen observational studies published between 2002 and 2021 were included, with a combined sample of 71,53,723 father-child dyads.
• Paternal depression was associated with an increased risk of depression in offspring.
• Higher risk was noticed among offspring exposed to paternal depressive disorders than those exposed to depression as defined by a nonclinical symptom scale. 
• Sensitivity analysis revealed consistent pooled estimates ranging from 1.35 to 1.45. 
• About 42% higher risk of depression in offspring was found in those exposed to paternal depression.

This study is the first of its kind to investigate the association between paternal depression and offspring depression. An increased risk of depression later was found in offspring exposed to paternal depression. 

Further reading: Dachew B, Ayano G, Duko B, Lawrence B, Betts K, Alati R. Paternal Depression and Risk of Depression Among Offspring: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. JAMA Netw Open. 2023;6(8):e2329159. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.29159