The Potential of Social Epigenetics for Child Health Policy

Abstract

Developing public policies aimed at improving child health and well-being in Canada is an important objective. Social epigenetic research can be an insightful additional source of evidence in pursuing this endeavour. Social epigenetics is the study of the molecular mechanisms by which early-life experiences influence gene expression and have persistent effects on human physiology and health. Findings so far suggest that epigenetic mechanisms might be an important biological component linking various early-life experiences to later outcomes. Although there are numerous challenges in translating epigenetic knowledge to the public sphere, applying social epigenetic research to practice and policy could have important and pragmatic uses in clinical practice and in influencing public opinion toward healthy starts.