It has been reported that kids with older dads are more likely to be affected with genetic diseases. According to a recent study, older dads tend to transfer more mutated genes to their children as compared to the young dads.

The findings of the study have been published in the journal Nature. The study was conducted by the researchers of Reykjavik, Iceland-based deCode Genetics Inc. (DCGNQ). It is for the very first when researchers have found that older fathers transfer mutated genes to their children.

Alexey Kondrashov from Michigan University said, “If the paternal-age effect on the de novo mutation rate does lead to substantially impaired health in the children of older fathers, then collecting the sperm of young adult men … could be a wise individual decision”.

The researchers further noted that such children are more likely to be affected with mental diseases like schizophrenia and autism. The researchers are hopeful that their findings will help in finding genetic treatment of these diseases.

According to the research, a young father transfers 25 mutated genes while an old father transfers 65 mutated genes. The findings can help in preventing kids from developing genetic disorders. However, further studies are required to be conducted to draw a concrete solution.