Project number: K132484

Infant and child health are important predictors of various outcomes in later life, including adult health, educational and labor market outcomes. In this research, we examine the prevalence of and inequalities in the most important chronic and acute diseases among children and determinants of health at birth of the newborns in Hungary in the 21st century. We will add to our understanding of the complex interplay between family, environmental, and health care causes of chronic health conditions in early childhood and health at birth of the newborns in Hungary. Our research makes use of several unique, individual-level administrative datasets (covering the entire population of Hungary) that previously have not been frequently used in epidemiological or health economics research. The results of our projects will allow us to point out important intervention points (specific diseases, factors that influence early childhood health differences), by which policymakers could implement better and more efficient prevention strategies and programs that could reduce (preventable) inequalities in early childhood health.