Babies in vulnerable neighbourhoods face higher birth risks

Babies born in vulnerable Dutch neighbourhoods face higher risks around birth, according to new research.

The study looked at more than 1.1 million pregnancies between 2015 and 2021. Researchers focused on 20 areas that the Dutch government has identified as vulnerable because of problems linked to poverty, safety, education and housing.

The findings show clear differences. Babies in these neighbourhoods are more often born too early. They also more often have a low birth weight or die during pregnancy or shortly after birth.

In Amsterdam Zuidoost, around 8 in every 1,000 babies die during pregnancy or shortly after birth. That is about 2 times as high as in areas without major socioeconomic problems.

Researchers say the difference is not only about individual families. Living conditions during pregnancy appear to play an important role.

Poorly insulated homes, indoor air quality, mould, air pollution, noise and heat stress can all affect the health of pregnant women and babies. These problems are often more common in neighbourhoods with lower incomes and older housing.

The study points to a wider issue in Dutch public health. A child’s health is shaped before birth, and the neighbourhood where someone lives can already create an unequal start.

This means that improving healthcare alone may not be enough. Good maternity care is important, but housing, air quality, green space, noise reduction and heat protection can also matter for birth outcomes.

The findings are especially relevant as Dutch cities deal with housing pressure, climate stress and health gaps between neighbourhoods.

The research does not say that every baby in a vulnerable area is at risk. It shows that the average risk is higher in these areas and that living conditions can influence health before life has even fully begun.

The main message is clear: a healthy start requires more than hospital care. It also requires healthier homes and neighbourhoods.