First infant Mental Health Conference in Johannesburg, South Africa Dialogues in a Multidisciplinary Context

Research in sub-Saharan Africa has highlighted poor child development outcomes associated with deprivation (see Lancet special edition on child development, 2007). Early intervention is required in order to facilitate positive, long-lasting treatment effects. However, as is the case in many developing countries, funding in South Africa focuses on decreasing HIV infection and infant mortality rates, as opposed to the promotion of infant mental health (IMH). High rates of HIV infection in sub-Saharan Africa continue to pose a threat to the well-being of infants born to HIV-infected mothers. Plenary presenter, Peter Cooper (Academic Head: Paediatrics and Child Health, University of the Witwatersrand) First infant Mental Health Conference in Johannesburg, South Africa Dialogues in a Multidisciplinary Context