A study of nearly 47,000 children in Sefton has found that those living in the most deprived areas are more likely to have stunted growth than their peers in more affluent parts of the borough.
The research examined health data from children aged four to five and 10 to 11, collected between 2013 and 2023. It revealed that children in deprived areas were more likely to be shorter than expected for their age.
Key findings
Among Reception-aged pupils, one in 41 in the most deprived areas had stunted growth, compared with one in 72 in the least deprived 20% of areas. For Year 6 pupils, the figures were one in 62 in deprived areas versus one in 122 in affluent areas.
The study explored possible reasons, including low birth weight, premature birth, lower breastfeeding rates, food insecurity, and poorer access to healthcare. In older children, these factors appeared to explain much of the link between deprivation and stunted growth, though the results are not definitive.
Research background
The study was conducted by Dr Tim Martin, a former trainee public health consultant with Sefton Council, and published in the Journal of Public Health. Dr Martin said he was interested in inequalities in child health outcomes, having previously worked in low- and middle-income countries where stunting is more common.
He noted that research had shown UK children's growth slowing compared to other European countries, coinciding with austerity, the Covid-19 pandemic, and the cost-of-living crisis. Sefton was chosen because it has very deprived areas in the south, like Bootle, and more affluent suburban areas in the north, such as Formby.
Policy implications
Dr Martin said the study came as Sefton Council was developing its child poverty strategy, and the findings highlight the importance of addressing child poverty. He emphasised that childhood growth is a key indicator of overall health, linked to chronic conditions, premature mortality, and educational outcomes.
While the research could not prove child poverty directly caused stunted growth, it underscores the need for further research and action. Dr Martin added that even in the most deprived areas, stunted growth remains rare, so parents should not be unduly concerned but should contact their GP if worried.
Cllr Joanne Williams, Sefton Council’s Cabinet member for public health and wellbeing, said the study draws attention to an overlooked impact of poverty on children's height. She confirmed the council's anti-poverty work, including promoting the Healthy Start scheme and ensuring children have access to meals during holidays.
