Teenage Motherhood Linked to Obesity in Later Life

A new study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology suggests that teen moms were more likely to become obese when they grew up. The study was conducted by researchers at University of Michigan Health System who used data from The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, focusing on factors such as race, education and socio-economic indicators.

The researchers found that women who gave birth between 13 and 19 years of age had a 32 percent greater risk of being obese as they grew older, compared to women who gave birth after they turned 20.

“When taking care of teen moms, we often have so many immediate concerns -- child care, housing, school, social and financial support -- that we don't often think of the long-term health effects of teen pregnancy. For the first time, we've identified our youngest moms as a high risk group for obesity, which we know to be one of the most debilitating, long-term health issues we face”, lead author Dr Tammy Chang said.

Source-Medindia