The life-course association of birth-weight genes with self-rated health

Biodemography Soc Biol. 2020 Jul-Sep;65(3):268-286. doi: 10.1080/19485565.2020.1765733.

Abstract

This study examines the impact of genes associated with normal-range birth weight (2500-4500 grams) on self-rated health in mid-to-late life course. Fifty-eight previously identified genetic variants that explain the variation in the normal-range birth weight were used to construct a genetic measure of birth weight for the non-Hispanic white sample from the Health and Retirement Study. Our results show that the genetic tendency toward higher birth weight predicts better self-rated health in mid-to-late life course net of various demographic, socioeconomic, and health behavioral factors. We also examine the heterogeneous effects of birth-weight genes across birth cohorts and age groups. Moreover, to clarify the paradox that higher birth weight can predict both better self-rated health and higher BMI, we show the positive association between birth weight genes and BMI can only hold within the normal-range BMI (18 ≤ BMI < 30). Overall, these findings suggest the genetic factors underlying the normal-range birth weight can have life-courseimpacts on health.

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Birth Weight / genetics*
  • Body Mass Index
  • Cohort Studies
  • Female
  • Health Status*
  • Humans
  • Logistic Models
  • Longitudinal Studies
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Multifactorial Inheritance / genetics
  • Self Report / statistics & numerical data*