STANFORD, Calif. — Since men don’t have the same biological clocks that women have, a new study finds that many are waiting longer and longer to start a family — some waiting until their 50s before fathering children. Despite being able to have children, researchers at Stanford University say this growing trend is raising new concerns about the child’s health and their future.
The study, published in JAMA Network Open, analyzed over 46 million U.S. births from 2011 to 2022. What they found might surprise you: the number of babies born to fathers aged 50 and above is on the rise, challenging our stereotypes about who these older dads really are.
Contrary to popular belief, these silver-haired fathers aren’t all wealthy executives or celebrities. The study reveals a diverse group spanning various racial backgrounds and education levels. From college professors to blue-collar workers, the face of older fatherhood is changing.
MORE: