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Genetics Influences 25% of When Babies Walk

5/7/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A groundbreaking study of 71,000 infants from Norway, the Netherlands, and the UK reveals that 11 genetic markers play a crucial role in determining when children take their first steps, influencing 25% of the variation. Researchers, including Angelica Ronald from the University of Surrey, hope this insight will ease parental anxiety over walking milestones by highlighting the interplay of genetics and environment.

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Story summary

A groundbreaking study of 71,000 infants from Norway, the Netherlands, and the UK reveals that 11 genetic markers play a crucial role in determining when children take their first steps, influencing 25% of the variation. Researchers, including Angelica Ronald from the University of Surrey, hope this insight will ease parental anxiety over walking milestones by highlighting the interplay of genetics and environment.