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The researchers at the
Telethon Institute for Child Health
Research in Perth say the number is now
more than 40 times higher than it was in
the 1980's and the babies are at greater
risk of neglect and of being taken into
care. An
analysis of data has revealed that of
637,195 live births in Western Australia
between 1980 and 2005, 906 were
diagnosed with Neonatal Withdrawal
Syndrome and every year, there was an
average 16.4% increase in children born
with the syndrome.
Professor Fiona
Stanley, co-author of the study says the
research has identified a range of
factors that should help in the early
identification of children at risk.
Professor Stanley says
it is clear that there is a need to
start working with the mothers before
these babies are born - ideally,
pre-conception - in order to reduce the
number of these children suffering from
abuse and neglect.
The researchers say
the majority of the mothers had already
had contact with hospitals for mental
health and substance use issues, which
suggests there could have been numerous
opportunities to intervene to prevent
unplanned pregnancy and provide
intensive support with antenatal care
and substance abuse treatment.
Professor Stanley
suggests that a multidisciplinary team
that includes obstetricians, social
workers, drug and alcohol workers, and
welfare workers is required to case
manage and support these women through
the complex issues that they are facing.
Professor Stanley says
the 'Women and Newborn Drug and Alcohol'
service provides a good example of a
working model but it is imperative that
this support continues long term.
According to Professor
Stanley the increase in babies suffering
Neonatal Withdrawal Syndrome reflects
the overall rise in substance abuse
within the community as well as the
increased recognition of the syndrome by
health professionals.
Professor Stanley
believes the WA study reflects a
national trend and says the situation is
now such that 4 babies out of every 1000
births are born suffering the effects of
illicit drugs which equates to over 1000
newborns per year in Australia.
Professor Stanley says
this has serious implications for the
child, the family and the whole
community and is an issue that must be
tackled well before the children suffer
potential harm.
The study was made
possible by a groundbreaking agreement
by the Western Australian Government
Departments of Health and Child
Protection that allowed health and
welfare records to be linked and the
de-identified information given to
researchers for analysis. |
