Database of Families with Twins and Higher Order Multiples in Japanese Twins Mothers Clubs

Abstract

It is desirable for twin researchers to be aware of the needs and concerns of families of multiples and provide participants with appropriate and useful feedback and advice based on scientific evidence. Our most recent database on families with twins throughout Japan is based on a questionnaire survey conducted in 2016. Mailed questionnaires, consisting of over 500 items, were used to collect the basic data. The response rate was 38% (566/1478). This is part of a nationwide study designed to assess the long-term effect of perinatal conditions on mothers of multiples. Its aim was to study the growth and development of multiples in childhood, and for the creation of a multifetal mother and child health handbook, and to conduct a genetic epidemiologic study to test the developmental origin of health and disease hypothesis. One of the ultimate aims of this research was to provide evidence-based information on parenting of multiples for families with multiples.