Our Vision and Setting

AIM:

We aim to investigate the developmental origins of maternal and infant health in First Nations people, and in doing so, develop innovative methods for early detection and prevention of chronic diseases. The study contributes to addressing health inequities through culturally responsive, evidence-based approaches to disease prevention that can often begin during pregnancy.

WHERE ARE WE?

The Gomeroi Gaaynggal Study is based in the regional town of Tamworth, NSW, within the Aboriginal land of the Kamilaroi people. The Indigenous people in this region identify as Kamilaroi, Gomeroi, Gamilaraay and Gamilaroi. Tamworth has a population of over 59,000 people and 10% of the community identify as being of Indigenous origins (Australian Bureau of Statistics; 2016 census data).

WHAT DO WE DO?

The Gomeroi Gaaynggal study is the largest longitudinal study of its kind in the world.  The Gomeroi Gaaynggal cohort of Indigenous women and their children begins in pregnancy and continues through early childhood.

The study began in 2007 and was developed by the local Aboriginal community in partnership with researchers from the University of Newcastle to find a way to close the gap in health outcomes in their community and has recruited over 400 Indigenous mothers so far.

A picture of a mum and bub cuddling

The Gomeroi Gaaynggal Study aims to explore the relationship between exposure to stressors to the baby and mother during pregnancy and the effect this has on the child's future health and growth. The particular stressors that we have been looking at are:

  1. Maternal nutrition and body composition

  2. Maternal mental health

  3. Maternal physical health (blood pressure, infections, kidney health, diabetes risk)

  4. Exposure to environmental stress including tobacco smoking in the home

Specifically, we aim to improve maternal and infant health within Indigenous communities by supporting healthy pregnancies, promoting breastfeeding and optimal infant feeding, and addressing important nutritional needs such as iron supplementation and iron deficiency. Through this work, we aim to identify opportunities for early intervention, prevention, and improved health outcomes for mothers and their infants. The Gomeroi Gaaynggal Study uses Health research approaches that enable capacity building and improve health within the Indigenous community.