Children of the nineties. A longitudinal study of pregnancy and childhood based on the population of Avon (ALSPAC).

A survey to assess factors, especially those in the environment, which influence child health and development is shortly to be started within the South West region. This study will start during pregnancy and involve both the mother and her partner as well as the child. Data will be collected on environmental exposures, and psychosocial aspects of the family home. Biological samples will also be kept and stored as a means of identifying pollutants inter alia, and to assess their influence on the fetus/infant. The children will be followed up to the age of 7 when they will receive a full educational, psychological and medical examination. Follow up of the outcome of pregnancy and the development of the child will help identify ways in which the environment influences child health and development.