Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children

Long-term health research project in the UK

File:Children-of-the-90s-logo-2012.png

Logo of the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children

The Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC), also known as Children of the 90s, is a long-term health research project that began in the early 1990s in the United Kingdom. It is one of the most comprehensive studies of its kind, focusing on the health and development of children and their parents.

History

The study was initiated in 1991 by Professor Jean Golding at the University of Bristol. The primary aim was to understand how genetic and environmental factors affect the health and development of children. The study recruited over 14,000 pregnant women in the Avon area of the UK, who were expected to give birth between April 1991 and December 1992.

Objectives

The main objectives of ALSPAC are to:

• Investigate the ways in which the environment interacts with genetic factors to influence health and development.
• Study the impact of prenatal and postnatal factors on child health and development.
• Provide a resource for researchers to study a wide range of health-related issues.

Methodology

The study collects a wide range of data from participants, including biological samples, questionnaires, and clinical assessments. Data collection is ongoing, with participants being followed up at various stages of their lives. The study has expanded to include the children of the original participants, allowing for intergenerational research.

Key Findings

ALSPAC has contributed significantly to the understanding of various health issues, including:

• The impact of maternal diet and lifestyle on child development.
• The role of genetic factors in the development of diseases such as asthma and diabetes.
• The influence of early life experiences on mental health outcomes.

Impact

The findings from ALSPAC have influenced public health policies and practices. The study has provided valuable insights into the prevention and management of childhood diseases and has been instrumental in shaping guidelines for maternal and child health.

Related pages

• Cohort study
• Epidemiology
• Longitudinal study
• University of Bristol