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Dutch Hunger Winter Study

Meaning

The Dutch Hunger Winter Study is a landmark epidemiological investigation that examined the long-term health and epigenetic consequences in individuals whose mothers experienced severe famine during the final months of World War II in the Netherlands. This unique cohort study provided compelling evidence for the concept of developmental programming. It demonstrated that maternal nutritional stress during specific periods of gestation can permanently alter the offspring’s metabolism and disease risk profile. The findings highlight the profound, intergenerational impact of early life environment on adult health, including hormonal and metabolic function.