What We Did
We collected health information and biological samples from more than 1,800 non-pregnant women and over 6,900 pregnant women during different stages of pregnancy and after birth. The aim is to better understand pregnancy complications —such as high blood pressure, babies born too small or too soon, and stillbirths—in sub-Saharan Africa. Our work focuses on three countries: The Gambia, Kenya, and Mozambique.

What We have Found So Far
We have built a large and unique resource that includes nearly half a million samples aliquots, and detailed information about the women’s health, social conditions, and communities. We have already used this resource to study the prevalence of COVID-19 among pregnant women in the study.

What’s Next
We’re now analysing the samples and data to learn more about how different factors—like biology, environment, and social conditions—contribute to pregnancy complications. This research will help us understand how to improve care for mothers and their babies.
We’re committed to sharing what we learn with local communities, health professionals, and researchers around the world.

Read our recent publication:

Infographics: Maura Malanga