Hair Steroid Concentration Before and After the Beginning of the COVID-19 Pandemic in Preschoolers: The Moderating Effect of Family Characteristics

This study investigated hair steroid concentrations in 136 preschoolers (2-4 years) before and after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, examining the potential moderating effects of family characteristics. Hair samples were collected in November 2019 and June 2020, and family-related stress factors were assessed through parent questionnaires. The results showed no significant changes in hair steroid levels overall. However, a moderation effect of family income was observed for the HCC-HCNC ratio, indicating higher stress in children from higher-income families. Additionally, DHEA levels were higher in boys and lower in children from higher-income families. The study provides limited evidence of persistent changes in stress biomarkers in preschoolers during the early months of the pandemic.