The Born in Bradford study will piece together a picture of each child's genes, diet, lifestyle, schooling, home neighbourhood and upbringing.
Researchers will also follow the children's parents and grandparents.
The study will enable doctors to explore the causes of major diseases such as diabetes, cancer and hypertension.
It will be the first study of its kind to research the impact of ethnicity on later health and educational development. Twenty per cent of Bradford's population belong to minority ethnic groups.
Pauline Raynor, the study's project manager, hopes families from all communities will take part. She said, 'The project is something the whole city can get involved in - it's not just medical research taking place in a laboratory.
Register now to continue reading
Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Unlimited access to news and opinion
-
Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news
Already have an account? Sign in here