Babies born at weekends are at greater risk of dying or suffering brain injury

Following on from the Government’s recent ambitious pledge to cut the rate of babies dying and suffering brain injury by 50% by 2030, the British Medical Journal (BMJ) has just published a study indicating that there is a 7% increase in babies dying if they are delivered at the weekend, as well as an increased risk in babies suffering brain damage. 

The researchers estimated that if hospital performances were the same for the weekends as they are over the working week there would be about 770 fewer newborn deaths. The study was unable to draw any final conclusions about the underlying cause for the increased risk and recommended further investigation.

Susan Brown, head of the clinical negligence team at Boyes Turner, commented:

“Clearly there are a number of factors that play a part in the avoidable death and brain injury of babies at birth.  However in the cases that we have dealt with over the years there are some common themes which come up time and time again relating to recognising, investigating and monitoring abnormalities during the ante natal period and failures to adequately monitor the baby during labour and delivery. It all too often comes down to the training and supervision of staff. It is encouraging to see that the issue is now being looked at as a priority area and hopefully the Government’s pledge will be met.”