Why isn't public knowledge that neurcognitive disorders are more common in kids with older fathers?

Question

There is a large body of consistent research since 1955 with this finding so it is not new research. Each time a paper comes out finding paternal age associated with increasing risk of mental retardation, autism. or schizophrenia it is called a new finding when it is really not new at all. There are lots of peer reviewed papers from all around the world with this finding.

Answer 1

I think I know what you are stating and asking. It is probably due to the fact that the research on this topic is very new and not completely conclusive from a medical research stand point. Unfortunately even though it seems to be a pretty certain, they do not publish findings until they are completely satisfied with the repeated outcome. Or on a more cynical note they don't want to be responsible for the research of something that may really be a finding that would change the perception of male reproduction.

Answer 2

I think that those in the sciences fields know very well the correlation between parental age and the increase in incidence of all birth defects. You make it sound like there is some grand conspiracy that is trying to hide this fact. Remember that it is not just neurocognitive disorders and it is not just paternal age. All genetically linked disorders increase with both maternal and paternal age. This is due to the fact that age causes collective mutations in both mother's and father's genes that contribute to the new offspring.

Answer 3

You mean "general knowledge?"

Well, first, "neurocognitave" is a fairly specialized word that isn't used that often in everyday conversation. And second, not too many people actually pay attention when taking genetics classes.

There are much higher chances of various birth defects if either parent is older.

It's just one of those interesting, useful tidbits of information that most people consider unimportant.
Y'know, like a 1:1 LA/ALA ratio will hinder cancer development. The research is out there but no one wants to take the time to learn about it.

Answer 4

Because most researchers are older men, and they've forgotten all about the whole thing!