A new study published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health showed that first-time dads in their 20s have a higher midlife mortality rate due to the increased risk of health problems. Scientists at the University of Helsinki in Finland found that first-time dads aged between 22 and 24 have a higher risk of dying in middle age than older first-time dads. According to the study results, men who became fathers between 30 and 44 had a 25 percent reduced risk of an earlier death compared to the young dads having their first child at 25. The highest risk category included first-time dads at 22 at 26 percent. Within the study period, one man in 20 subjects died. The main mortality causes were heart disease with 21 percent and excessive alcohol consumption with 16 percent.Researchers said the psychological stress of early fatherhood cause health problems and higher midlife mortality. "The findings of our study provide evidence of a need to support young fathers struggling with the demands of family life in order to promote good health behaviors and future health," said Elina Einio, one of the study authors. The study included more than 30,000 men and examined various criteria including health and education status.