Longitudinal Changes in Lifestyle Behaviors and Cardiovascular Health During the Transition to Fatherhood: The Dad Bod Study Rationale and Design

Abstract Background Despite the importance of the transition to fatherhood as a critical life stage among young adult men, much remains unknown about the factors predictive of ideal cardiovascular health (CVH) and how CVH is impacted as young men face new roles and responsibilities associated with fatherhood. Methods To address this gap, the Dad Bod Study is a prospective, longitudinal and observational study designed to examine how fatherhood affects young men’s CVH. A total of 125, first-time prospective fathers (men, 19-39 years) will be enrolled and followed over 1.5 years. Metrics of the American Heart Association’s “Life’s Essential 8” as well as demographic, social, and psychosocial factors will be collected at four time points ((baseline (during the pregnant partner’s 2nd trimester) 1-month postpartum, 6-months postpartum, and 1-year postpartum). The primary aims are to measure predictors of CVH among first-time fathers and describe longitudinal changes in CVH. A secondary aim is to identify best practices for recruitment, retention, and remote data collection in this population. Summary The Dad Bod Study offers a novel examination of CVH among first-time fathers, exploring how new paternal roles and responsibilities impact cardiovascular health. Findings may provide key insights into critical CVH behaviors and risk factors to monitor, preserve, and improve as young men transition to fatherhood.