Embargoed until:
Publicly released:
2024-07-23 01:00
Kids who were exposed to tobacco, drugs and alcohol in the womb are more likely to have higher health costs up to the age of 20, according to Australian research. The study found that the estimated total cost associated with substance use during pregnancy was A$129 million and was comparable to annual government spending for Australian children with childhood cancer. The study also found that having interactions with out-of-home care could reduce these extra costs. The authors say this suggests that engagement in preventive and supportive services could have beneficial health effects.
Journal/conference: JAMA Pediatrics
Link to research (DOI): 10.1001/jamapediatrics.2024.2281
Organisation/s: Macquarie University, The University of New South Wales, Western Sydney University, The University of Sydney, University of Otago
Funder: This study received funding
from Sphere Mindgardens Neuroscience Network;
Australian Red Cross; Alpha Maxx Healthcare; the
Centre for Research Excellence for Integrated
Health and Social Care, funded by the National
Health and Medical Research Council
(APP1198477); and the University of Sydney
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