Prenatal alcohol use effects on birth, development, and educational outcomes in the Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal populations in the Northern Territory of Australia: a study protocol

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Prenatal alcohol use (PAU) is a global public health concern with far-reaching impacts on infants' cognitive, behavioural, and physical development. There have been few studies of the extent and impact of PAU in the population of the Northern Territory (NT) of Australia. This study aims to investigate the trend in the prevalence, find factors affecting PAU, and assess the impact of PAU on birth, development, and educational outcomes in the NT population. METHODS: In a series of retrospective cohort studies, the researchers will use data from the Child and Youth Development Research Partnership (CYDRP) data repository. Four distinct cohorts will be considered, encompassing pregnant women giving birth in the NT from January 1, 2000, to December 1, 2017, all births in the NT during the same period, NT-born children registered during the Australian Early Development Census (AEDC) in the years 2009, 2012, 2015, and 2018, and all NT-born children who have registered for National Assessment Program-Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) tests in the years from 2005 to 2018. Furthermore, a systematic review and meta-analysis will assess global PAU's prevalence, trends, and adverse outcomes. The data linkage technique will connect records for the same individual across different datasets while ensuring confidentiality. The data analysis process will involve four key steps: (I) data management, (II) descriptive (exploratory) statistical analysis, (III) inferential data analysis, and (IV) model adequacy assessment. EXPECTED OUTCOMES: This project examines the hypothesis that PAU significantly affects birth outcomes, child development and educational performance, with results that will be reported in about five scientific manuscripts Suitable for publication in peer-reviewed journals in 2024 and 2025. CONCLUSIONS: This project will provide valuable insights into the consequences of PAU for birth outcomes, child development, and educational outcomes, aiding the development of effective interventions.