[Health status and living conditions of fathers of multiple babies: Analysis of the Comprehensive Survey of Living Conditions].

Abstract

Objective　This study explored the physical and mental health status and living conditions of fathers raising 0-year-old multiples in Japan compared with those raising singletons to gain insight into fathers' health issues and the need for support.Methods　Household and health data from the Comprehensive Survey of Living Conditions (2016, 2019, and 2022) were used. Because of the small number of fathers with multiples in each dataset, three datasets were combined. The t-test and Fisher's exact probability test were used to compare fathers with multiples and singletons for various factors.Results　Fathers with multiples were significantly more likely to sleep for < 5 h than those of singletons. There was no significant difference between both groups in the percentage of fathers with a K6 score of ≥ 10. However, the percentage of fathers with multiples exceeded the target set by the government. There were no differences in the counseling status regarding worries and stress. The proportion of consultations with public institutions was extremely low in both groups.Conclusion　The analysis of representative data from Japan highlights health issues and the need for support for fathers with multiples. Fathers with multiples showed a high percentage of short sleep durations, worries, and stress related to childcare. The need for mental health support, accumulation of knowledge and experience on support for fathers with multiples, and development of support systems were suggested.