Maternal, Newborn, Child and Adolescent Health and Ageing
We lead WHO’s work on the life course so that every pregnant woman, mother, newborn, child, adolescent, and older person will survive, thrive and enjoy health and well-being.

Setting the global research agenda

for Maternal, Newborn, Child and Adolescent Health and Ageing (MCA)


WHO MCA has a leadership role in setting global research priorities and advancing thought leadership throughout different stages of the life course, from birth to ageing.  

Our research explores the causes of and impacts from a wide range of determinants affecting maternal, newborn, child and adolescent health, utilizing both primary and secondary research methodologies. Our research contributes to the development of guidelines to improve health outcomes We also advance implementation research to improve the delivery of state-of-the-art interventions.     

In developing knowledge in our fields of study, our researchers engage with research networks and partners, including ministries of health, across the globe, ensure high ethical standards for research and encourage open access to research materials. We foster innovative approaches and methods which engage with key populations and support inclusive research that improves health and wellbeing worldwide.