Children who are born into poverty in London are twice as likely to die within their first year as those born into more affluent families, according to research by PHE.
The research, published by PHE as part of Child Safety Week, found that babies in London born into poverty had significantly worse health outcomes compared to wealthier peers. Approximately 30% of children are born into poverty in London, and this group is significantly more likely to experience complications such as premature birth and low birth weight.
PHE has emphasised the need for better early intervention and prevention, and a greater focus on a families to resolve this inequality. Beverley Bailey, a health visitor, agreed, saying: 'It is part of the health visitor's offer that they can assess the mother and support them if a problem is identified. Health visitors are able to provide an expanded to service to mothers from lower-income families, and we also have large influence in referring mothers to agencies.'
The PHE research suggested several reasons for the child mortality inequality. It states that mothers living in poverty are more likely to smoke, be in poor health, and have mental health issues, all of which have been linked to increased risk of child mortality. Ms Bailey also suggested that living conditions and a lack of awareness could play a role, saying: 'Children from low income families are more likely to experience accidental death and cot death. It is essential for mothers to be educated on these risks.'
Dr Yvonne Doyle, regional director of PHE London, said: 'By raising awareness of sudden and unexpected deaths in babies and some of the commonly associated risks, we can hopefully further educate parents and guardians and help to reduce infant mortality in London.'
PHE estimates that, over all, 5200 babies die before their first birthday in London each year. The leading cause of this is sudden unexpected death in infancy, which PHE has released guidance on this week.