Adapted from BMJ 26 July 2025
Mothers and children in low income households have poorer health than those from high income households. A trial in four cities in the USA compared results when monthly unconditional cash transfers were made. In theory, those given more money should see an improvement in health.
A total of 1,000 mothers were randomised to receiving either $333 dollars or $20 a month until their child was six years old.
After four years, no difference between the groups was found n maternal mental health, maternal or child BMI, or maternal report of the child’s health.
My comment: I would have thought that an extra $333 would have led to some improvements in diet, house heating, clothes and shoe provision. It could also have led to less paid work being necessary for the mother to do, which I would also have expected to help. I am surprised that health outcomes didn’t improve at all. Perhaps, much more money is needed? Or is it being spent on things that don’t improve health?
Diabetes Diet 