Healthy children are more likely to grow up to be healthy adults, and the case for early intervention is very strong. Parents need to be supported, as habits can persist from childhood into adulthood. There is clear evidence to show that supporting mothers-to-be during pregnancy improves health outcomes for their children later on. The infant mortality rate is significantly higher among groups with low incomes compared with the better off. Low birthweight babies develop higher blood pressure and face an increased risk of coronary heart disease in later life, and are more likely to go on to achieve lower educational qualifications regardless of social background. Babies in low income families are less likely to be breastfed.

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