Understanding Predictors of Maternal and Child Health in Rural Western India: An International Prospective Study

Background: Efforts by the Indian government to improve maternal and child health (MCH) outcomes have failed to have significant impact, calling for a more evidence-based approach. This study stems from an Indo-US collaboration led by two U.S. medical students designed to address critical gaps in knowledge about the underlying causes of adverse MCH outcomes.

Methods: The pilot longitudinal study will enroll 150 pregnant women between the ages of 18-45 and spans from first trimester of a pregnancy to six months post-partum and includes eight visits at a tertiary healthcare center in rural Western India. Participants receive clinical evaluations, ultrasound imaging studies, and serum biomarker measurements. Trained research coordinators manage their visits and conduct standardized interview surveys in the local language.

Results: Currently, 86 participants are enrolled, with enrollment projected to conclude in May 2014. To date, 53 participants reported a previous pregnancy, with only half (51.6%) resulting in a live childbirth. Of the participants, 76.7% were anemic (Hgb < 12g/dL) and 41.1% were Vitamin B12 deficient (< 120 pmol/L). Only one of the 17 participants who have completed their third trimester visit was aware of the government MCH program.

Conclusions: Preliminary evidence reveals important insight into the nutritional, psychosocial, and clinical problems affecting pregnancy in rural Western India. Additionally, our findings suggest lack of patient engagement in large government-operated MCH programs. Findings from the full data set will guide future interventions to be developed by ongoing cohorts of medical students in collaboration with academic partners and the existing local public health infrastructure.