Using perinatal and preconception data from three long-running Australian studies, that have tracked the health and wellbeing of several thousand participants prior to parenthood, our aim is to understand how parental histories of substance use, and patterns of use during pregnancy, and in early life, shape offspring social, emotional and behavioural outcomes across childhood. Results will inform new approaches to preventing substance-related harms within and across generations.
This project is part of the Triple B Study: Bumps, Babies and Beyond is an innovative Australian study of approximately 1600 families. Triple B is a longitudinal pregnancy cohort which examines a wide range of biopsychosocial factors that relate to the health and development of Australian children and families. Importantly, the project has a key focus on examining the impacts of alcohol, tobacco and other drug use in pregnant women and their partners during the prenatal period on infant development and family functioning. The results of this study will inform public health and treatment initiatives that improve the health and well-being of Australian children and families.
This project is sometimes referred to by its scientific title, ‘The impact of parental alcohol, tobacco and other substance use on infant development and family functioning’.
Meet the team
Chief investigator