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Is body odor hereditary?

Aug 27, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
Body odor (bromhidrosis) is primarily associated with abnormal secretory function of the axillary apocrine glands, and this trait can be genetically transmitted to offspring. If both parents have body odor, the probability of genetic transmission to their children is higher; if only one parent is affected, the likelihood of inheritance is relatively reduced. Individuals who inherit the trait often develop noticeable odor after puberty, as the apocrine glands mature with development, and the severity of symptoms may correlate with the extent of familial inheritance.

Generally, body odor (bromhidrosis) has a certain genetic predisposition. If one or both parents have body odor, the probability of their children developing it is higher than that of the general population. However, not everyone who inherits the trait will display obvious symptoms. If abnormalities are noticed, timely medical consultation is recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:

Body odor primarily relates to abnormal secretory function of the apocrine sweat glands in the armpits, and this characteristic can be passed on genetically to offspring. If both parents have body odor, the likelihood of their children inheriting it is higher. If only one parent is affected, the probability of inheritance is relatively lower. Most individuals who inherit the trait begin to develop noticeable odor after puberty, as the apocrine sweat glands mature. The severity of symptoms may correlate with the degree of familial inheritance, and in some individuals, the odor may change with age.

Even in individuals with the genetic predisposition, some people may not exhibit obvious symptoms due to underdeveloped or weakly secretory apocrine glands, or because they maintain good hygiene. In such cases, mild odor might only occasionally occur during exercise or in hot, humid conditions and can be alleviated by frequent bathing and changing clothes. A small number of individuals without a family history of body odor may also develop it due to abnormal postnatal development of the apocrine glands, which is less related to genetic factors.

It is important to pay attention to changes during puberty in oneself and one's children. If the odor significantly affects daily life, visit a reputable medical facility to explore options for improvement. Avoid anxiety caused by concerns about genetic inheritance, and maintain good personal hygiene to help alleviate symptoms.

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