UCRH Director Professor Vicki Flood is among a group of researchers behind a new study profiled in BMJ Open.
The study, called the PROMOTE cohort study, looking into how to better understand and manage health risks during pregnancy, especially for women with obesity. With more women having children later in life and higher rates of obesity, there’s a growing concern about complications during pregnancy and beyond.
The PROMOTE study is recruiting pregnant women in Sydney to gather data on their physical activity, diet, emotional well-being, and other health factors. The goal is to identify which women are at the highest risk for complications like gestational diabetes and high blood pressure.
Researchers are using a variety of tools to collect this information, including surveys and routine medical data. They hope to find patterns that can help predict and prevent health issues during pregnancy. The study also focuses on diverse populations to understand how different backgrounds might affect pregnancy outcomes.
By looking at multiple risk factors together, the PROMOTE study aims to create a more personalized approach to pregnancy care. This could lead to better health for both mothers and their babies, especially in communities that are often underrepresented in research.
The findings from this study could change how doctors assess and manage pregnancy risks, making care more tailored to each woman’s unique situation.
