National Institute of Child Health and Human Development in the United States

National Institutes of Health, NIH Institutes and Centers: National Institute of Child Health and Human Development

Introduction to National Institute of Child Health and Human Development

Established in 1962, the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development leads federal research efforts that investigate fertility, pregnancy, and child growth and child development. According to its mission statement, the institute seeks to assure that every person is born healthy and wanted, that women suffer no harmful effects from reproductive processes, and that all children have the chance to achieve their potential for healthy and productive lives, free from disease or disability. As part of this mission, the institute supports basic and clinical research aimed at helping people plan and regulate reproduction through contraception (see Birth Control). It also develops improved methods to screen fetuses and newborns for developmental diseases and birth defects.

The National Institute of Child Health and Human Development supports research that investigates sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and other causes of infant mortality and raises public awareness about their prevention. It also investigates how biological factors may contribute to developmental problems in children, such as mental retardation.” (1)

Resources

Notes and References

• Information about National Institute of Child Health and Human Development in the Encarta Online Encyclopedia

Guide to National Institute of Child Health and Human Development