FetalFirst Neonatal Risk AI – v1.0
Research type
Research Study
Full title
AI-Powered Neonatal Risk Assessment for Improved Perinatal Outcomes
IRAS ID
358793
Contact name
Nawal Abide
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
FetalFirst Limited
Duration of Study in the UK
5 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
FetalFirst is a UK-based healthtech project that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to improve how hospitals understand and manage the risks faced by newborn babies. This study will use anonymised NHS data from the National Neonatal Research Database (NNRD) to train computer models that can predict which babies are more likely to experience serious health complications, such as breathing problems, infections, or even death.
The goal is to help doctors and nurses identify high-risk babies earlier and offer the right care at the right time. The AI tools being developed could also be used to support better communication between clinicians and parents during highly stressful and emotional times.
The research will only use previously collected hospital data. No patients or parents will be contacted, and no personal details such as names, addresses, or NHS numbers will be included. All data will be pseudonymised (de-identified) and stored securely.
This project is led by Nina Abide, who experienced the loss of her baby following a complex fetal diagnosis. Motivated by that experience, she founded FetalFirst to help other families facing similar challenges. The aim is to reduce uncertainty, support NHS care teams, and give parents clearer, earlier insights into their baby’s health.
Results will be published in peer-reviewed medical journals and shared with NHS clinicians. The study has public benefit, low risk, and follows all ethical and legal data protection standards.
REC name
Wales REC 6
REC reference
25/WA/0168
Date of REC Opinion
24 Jun 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion