Groundbreaking Research from the Theirworld Edinburgh Birth Cohort reveals impact of social deprivation
It would be fair to say that a baby born at full term to a more deprived couple has a similar sort of risk of developing some developmental difficulties as a baby born at 25 weeks into a well-to-do family.
Professor James Boardman, University of Edinburgh
The Theirworld Edinburgh Birth Cohort is a pioneering research project led by scientists at the Jennifer Brown Research Laboratory at Edinburgh University. The study tracks the development of 400 babies, both premature and full-term, from birth into adulthood to investigate how early life experiences shape long-term health and development.
Launched in 2015, with the oldest participants now aged eight, early findings have been eye-opening. Researchers have discovered that social deprivation can impact a baby’s brain development as significantly as premature birth.
Through strategic media engagement, Theirworld has amplified the voices of the most vulnerable from the very start of life while ensuring that the groundbreaking research from the Theirworld Edinburgh Birth Cohort reaches decision makers and supporters. This work has driven awareness across major media platforms, reinforcing why the cause needs continued attention. As a result, Theirworld received coverage in major UK media including BBC Radio 4, the Daily Mail, The Independent, and BBC Breakfast – the UK’s biggest morning show.