Health inequalities

Evidence shows that a quarter of deaths under the age of one could be avoided if we had no health inequalities. While mortality has markedly decreased over the last century, reported ill health among children is rising, with particular increases in respiratory diseases and emotional problems.

Findings from the Marmot Review (2010) showed that children from the poorest backgrounds are nearly twice as likely to have conduct problems and hyperactivity, as well as nearly half the vocabulary ability of those from the richest backgrounds. Even at 22 months old, evidence shows there are significant differences in the educational performance of children from different social groups.

From a physiological perspective, children born into poverty are also more likely to be born small, early, or both, be bottle fed, have poor nutrition and die younger. Studies show that when human foetuses have to adapt to a limited supply of nutrients, they permanently change their structure and metabolism. These ‘programmed’ changes may be the origins of a number of diseases in later life, including coronary heart disease and the related disorders of stroke, diabetes and hypertension.

Breastfeeding is associated with better outcomes for babies but mothers from lower socio-economic backgrounds are less likely to breastfeed and give up breastfeeding earlier than their better off peers. This unfortunate fact is what drove Best Beginnings to initiate its first major piece of work – a DVD showing parents how to get started breastfeeding and providing practical answers to the common problems.

Recent research suggests breastfeeding protects against preschool obesity, substantially reduces the risk of maternal type 2 diabetes, and may have a protective effect on child and adolescent mental health. More information can be found via Unicef's Baby Friendly Initiative.

From Bump to Breastfeeding is being given free across the UK to pregnant women by their midwife. Click here to find out how to get your copy and start using it today to encourage your clients to breastfeed.

Resources for you
Small Wonders project