Vaccine Hesitancy as a Function of Fetal Androgen Exposure

Abstract Evidence suggests fetal androgen exposure influences the development and function of the neuro-endocrine system. Recent research suggests people might be hesitant to get vaccinated because they are misinformed about the safety and efficacy of vaccines. Others may have concerns about the potential side effects or may have religious or philosophical objections to vaccination. Additionally, recent studies suggest that prenatal testosterone plays a critical role in the development of sex-specific characteristics, such as adult aggressiveness. However, little is known about the potential impact of fetal androgen exposure on adult behavior such as vaccine hesitancy. The current pilot study aims to clarify any relations between these factors as well determining whether fetal androgen exposure could serve as a bioindicator for understanding how these hormones may influence the future development of adult behavior and any consequences for public health. Here we show that high fetal androgen exposure is related to a significantly greater likelihood of getting vaccinated as compared to low fetal androgen exposure. Future studies should explore the extent to which fetal androgen exposure impacts adult behavior such as vaccine hesitancy.