Research and Programs
GAPPS collaborates with a network of global strategic partners to prevent preterm births and stillbirths. Below is a summary of our recent activities.
Global Action Agenda
Preterm birth and stillbirth are complex local and global health problems that require an interdisciplinary research approach and an international commitment. In May 2009, key stakeholders collaborated to make recommendations for a Global Action Agenda (GAA) at the International Conference on Prematurity and Stillbirth. The primary goal of the GAA is to find creative solutions to promote initiatives that will improve maternal, fetal, newborn and child health. Click here to learn more.
The Global Burden of Preterm Birth & Stillbirth A Comprehensive Report
GAPPS is leading an international team of core investigators to conduct research and a gap analysis on what we know and need to know about these two crises. Key findings from this comprehensive report were presented at the May 2009 conference. The GAPPS report is finalized and will be published in early 2010.
Building a Repository of Data and Samples from Pregnant Women
To help catalyze research to understand causes and find solutions, the GAPPS Repository of data and specimens from diverse women will become a resource for researchers around the world.
Intergrowth 21st: Fetal and Newborn Growth Research
GAPPS recently became part of the University of Oxford’s study to establish new international standards for describing healthy fetal growth and newborn nutritional status. Information from ultrasounds and height measurements of the mother’s womb will be used to understand risks and improve newborn health. GAPPS is partnering with the Maternal & Infant Care Clinic at the University of Washington Medical Center to help conduct this research. About 5,000 pregnancies will be monitored at 10 sites around the world. Click here to learn more.
Raising Awareness and Setting the Stage for Policy Action
GAPPS is developing a campaign to influence U.S. and global policies by elevating these issues in the minds of key global opinion leaders. GAPPS will educate families and healthcare practitioners about these risks and interventions. GAPPS is also seeking opportunities to collaborate with others to provide avenues for families to discuss these often taboo topics.
International Conference on Prematurity and Stillbirth
Seattle, WA, USA
GAPPS co-convened this conference in May 2009 with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, March of Dimes, PATH, Save the Children, UNICEF and WHO. Participants included 200 leading international researchers in maternal, newborn and child health, policymakers, health care practitioners and philanthropists. Interdisciplinary teams worked over four days to create a collaborative global action agenda that includes short- and long-term milestones as well as success metrics.