Why Single Dad Life Might Be a Little Riskier
Picture this: a quick check on Canadian families shows that lone dads are more than twice as likely to die before their time compared to single moms or dads who’ve got a partner. That’s a sobering take‑home from a study that kept tabs on nearly 40,000 folks for 11 years.
Unpacking the Numbers
- Participants: 4,590 single moms, 871 single dads, and many paired‑up parents.
- Age range: Avg. early 40s when the study kicked off.
- Fatalities: Almost 700 deaths logged by the end of the trial.
- Fatality rate? Solo dads had a death rate that was three‑times higher than both partner dads and single moms.
Still Double the Risk Even After Tweaking Factors
Even when the researchers accounted for single dads usually being older, having higher rates of cancer, and heart issues, the mortality risk remained twice that of others. The culprit? A combo of stressful life, less healthy habits, and, sadly, not seeking help when they need it.
Health Habits That’re a Poor Choice
These dads often report:
- Poor diet.
- Low exercise.
- Heavy drinking.
Because more men are divorced or widowed than women, coping with heartbreak becomes a big mental health challenge. And a 2016 study found that solo dads—even when they’re aware of their health problems—are less likely to reach out for professional support.
Single Parenting Across the Globe
Single families are a growing trend worldwide. For instance:
- In the U.S., children with single moms jumped from 8% in 1960 to 23% in 2016.
- Single dads rose from 1% to 4% over the same period.
- In Europe, Denmark leads with 30% of households headed by a single parent (23% women, 7% men).
- Canada sees 16% single‑mom households and 3% single‑dad households.
- Some African nations like South Africa have nearly 40% of kids under single mothers.
What This Means for Everyone
On a global scale, about 320 million of the world’s 2.3 billion kids live in a single‑parent home. With these figures in mind, it’s clear that the change in who owns the grill and the fridge isn’t just a social shift—it’s a public health issue that deserves more attention.
Bottom Line
Single dads are potentially a “vulnerable group,” as experts say. Their higher risk isn’t just a number; it’s a call to action for policymakers, health professionals, and communities to step in, support, and promote healthier living for those who’re raising families solo.
