The National Children’s Study is a step closer to becoming a reality. In February, the Study received an appropriation of $69 million from Congress to support expansion of the Study into additional communities across the country.

This funding will allow already established Study Centers (Vanguard Centers) to begin recruitment. Additionally, a Request for Proposals (RFP) to fund 15-20 new Study Centers nationwide has been posted.

“We can now begin the true work of the Study, working with families and communities to find out the root causes of what makes children sick and what keeps them healthy,” said National Children’s Study Director Peter Scheidt, MD.

More than 100,000 US children will participate in the Study and will be followed from from birth to 21 years of age. Kudos to Congress for recognizing that children are our most precious resource!