Understanding health outcomes in children exposed to opioids before birth

Disparities in early childhood health outcomes following prenatal opioid exposure and protective health system factors: a population perspective

NIH-funded research Dartmouth-Hitchcock Clinic · NIH-11046758

This study is looking at how being exposed to opioids during pregnancy affects children's health and development, especially focusing on differences based on race, ethnicity, and the health of their mothers, to better understand the long-term impacts for these kids.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDartmouth-Hitchcock Clinic NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Lebanon, United States)
Project IDNIH-11046758 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the health and developmental outcomes of children who were exposed to opioids during pregnancy. It aims to identify disparities in these outcomes based on factors such as race, ethnicity, and maternal health conditions. By analyzing data from a large network of hospitals, the study will explore how different health system factors may protect or harm these children. The goal is to fill knowledge gaps regarding the long-term effects of prenatal opioid exposure, particularly in underrepresented populations.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include children aged 0 to 5 years who were born to mothers with opioid use disorder.

Not a fit: Patients who were not exposed to opioids during pregnancy or are outside the age range of 0 to 5 years may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved health interventions and support for children affected by prenatal opioid exposure.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown varying health outcomes in similar populations, but this study aims to provide new insights specifically focused on underrepresented groups.

Where this research is happening

Lebanon, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.