The impact of E-cigarettes during pregnancy on Childhood Health Outcomes (ECHO) study is an observational study being carried out across the three Dublin maternity hospitals examining the health impact on babies born to women who use e-cigarettes during pregnancy. Throughout the study, we aim to collect a wide range of information on pregnant mothers and their babies. For this study, we are looking to recruit women who vape during pregnancy. For comparison, we are also seeking pregnant women who smoke and don’t smoke.

For more information on the study, please click here.

If you are pregnant, currently attending one of the Dublin maternity hospitals, and are interested in taking part in the study, please click here.

Over the past year, hundreds of expectant mothers in Dublin have participated in the ECHO study, a pioneering research project exploring the impact of prenatal e-cigarette exposure on childhood health outcomes. Researchers at The Coombe, The Rotunda, and the National Maternity Hospital have worked tirelessly to recruit participants and investigate key indicators of newborn development, such as size, weight, and reflexes.

As the ECHO babies approach their first birthdays, we are transitioning into the next phase of our study. At 12 months, our team will check in to track growth and gather further insights. Parents will be asked to complete brief questionnaires to help us better understand their babies’ cognitive and behavioral development. Additionally, we will conduct a more in-depth neuropsychological assessment with a smaller group of babies using the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development. This session will take about an hour and promises to be an enjoyable and relaxed experience for both parent and child. If you would like to know more about the Bayley assessment, feel free to ask your research midwife!

We are excited to continue our exploration of how e-cigarette exposure might affect child development and look forward to sharing more updates with you as we move forward!