Introduction: Research in South Africa has shown a high prevalence of developmental risk in children associated with specific factors and structural brain changes. This project aimed to engage the community around neuroimaging and understanding child brain development through interactive workshops.

Methods: The Drakenstein Child Health Study (DCHS) is a South African population-based birth cohort study investigating early-life determinants of child health and development. A subgroup of children underwent longitudinal neuroimaging and neurodevelopmental assessments at three timepoints from 0-6 years. Interactive workshops were conducted with 30 DCHS participants to explore the neuroimaging experience, to understand community perceptions of early development, and to discuss study findings through roundtable discussions.

Results: A set of key themes important for child brain development were agreed upon in each workshop based on community knowledge and study findings. These included: safety; caring for the mother’s physical and mental health; avoiding alcohol, smoking, and drugs in pregnancy; child health, education and nutrition; supporting and nurturing children. These were incorporated into community posters designed by participants to distribute the knowledge beyond the scientific community and raise awareness. Participant experience of the neuroimaging was positive and strategies for improving the research processes were identified.

Conclusion: The workshops were able to improve research processes and understanding of child development, and to collaboratively develop key messages for the wider community. Two-way knowledge translation between the research study and the community was strengthened with practical approaches to promote healthy brain development locally. This may be a model for future public engagement work.

Catherine Wedderburn
University of Cape Town
South Africa

Jessica Ringshaw
University of Cape Town
South Africa

Karen Mare
University of Cape Town
South Africa

Akhona Krwece
University of Cape Town
South Africa

Annerine Roos
University of Cape Town
South Africa

Nadia Hoffman
University of Cape Town
South Africa

Heather Zar
University of Cape Town
South Africa

Dan Stein
University of Cape Town
South Africa

Kirsten Donald
University of Cape Town
South Africa