1
|
Nijagal MA, Odiase OJ, Bell AJ, El Ayadi AM, Williams S, Nicolaisen C, Jacobs G, Mack B, LaSerre M, Stewart C, Crockett K, Afulani PA. The Family and Pregnancy Pop-Up Village: Developing a one-stop shop of services to reduce pregnancy care-related inequities in San Francisco. Birth 2024. [PMID: 38887141 DOI: 10.1111/birt.12839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Centering affected individuals and forming equitable institutional-community partnerships are necessary to meaningfully transform care delivery systems. We describe our use of the PRECEDE-PROCEED framework to design, plan, and implement a novel care delivery system to address perinatal inequities in San Francisco. METHODS Community engagement (PRECEDE phases 1-2) informed the "Pregnancy Village" prototype, which would unite key organizations to deliver valuable services alongside one another, as a recurring "one-stop-shop" community-based event, delivered in an uplifting, celebratory, and healing environment. Semi-structured interviews with key partners identified participation facilitators and barriers (PRECEDE phases 3-4) and findings informed our implementation roadmap. We measured feasibility through the number of events successfully produced and attended, and organizational engagement through meeting attendance and surveys. RESULTS The goals of Pregnancy Village resonated with key partners. Most organizations identified resource constraints and other participation barriers; all committed to the requested 12-month pilot. During its first year, 10 pilot events were held with consistent organizational participation and high provider engagement. CONCLUSION Through deep engagement and equitable partnerships between community and institutional stakeholders, novel systems of care delivery can be implemented to better meet comprehensive community needs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Malini A Nijagal
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Osamuedeme J Odiase
- Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - April J Bell
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Alison M El Ayadi
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Schyneida Williams
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Chloe Nicolaisen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine/Montefiore Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Garrett Jacobs
- Designing Justice + Designing Spaces (DJDS), Oakland, California, USA
| | - Brandi Mack
- Designing Justice + Designing Spaces (DJDS), Oakland, California, USA
| | - Monique LaSerre
- Rafiki Coalition for Health and Wellness, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Chelsea Stewart
- Rafiki Coalition for Health and Wellness, San Francisco, California, USA
| | | | - Patience A Afulani
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
- Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Vesoulis ZA, Diggs S, Brackett C, Sullivan B. Racial and geographic disparities in neonatal brain care. Semin Perinatol 2024:151925. [PMID: 38897830 DOI: 10.1016/j.semperi.2024.151925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
In this review, we explore race-based disparities in neonatology and their impact on brain injury and neurodevelopmental outcomes. We discuss the historical context of healthcare discrimination, focusing on the post-Civil War era and the segregation of healthcare facilities. We highlight the increasing disparity in infant mortality rates between Black and White infants, with premature birth being a major contributing factor, and emphasize the role of prenatal factors such as metabolic syndrome and toxic stress in affecting neonatal health. Furthermore, we examine the geographic and historical aspects of racial disparities, including the consequences of redlining and limited access to healthcare facilities or nutritious food options in Black communities. Finally, we delve into the higher incidence of brain injuries in Black neonates, as well as disparities in adverse neurodevelopmental outcome. This evidence underscores the need for comprehensive efforts to address systemic racism and provide equitable access to healthcare resources.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zachary A Vesoulis
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Newborn Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
| | - Stephanie Diggs
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Newborn Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Cherise Brackett
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, University of Virginia, USA
| | - Brynne Sullivan
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, University of Virginia, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Jarlenski M, Cole E, McClure C, Sanders S, Smalls M, Méndez DD. Implementation and early effects of medicaid policy interventions to promote racial equity in pregnancy and early childhood outcomes in Pennsylvania: protocol for a mixed methods study. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:498. [PMID: 38649983 PMCID: PMC11036682 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-10982-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are large racial inequities in pregnancy and early childhood health within state Medicaid programs in the United States. To date, few Medicaid policy interventions have explicitly focused on improving health in Black populations. Pennsylvania Medicaid has adopted two policy interventions to incentivize racial health equity in managed care (equity payment program) and obstetric service delivery (equity focused obstetric bundle). Our research team will conduct a mixed-methods study to investigate the implementation and early effects of these two policy interventions on pregnancy and infant health equity. METHODS Qualitative interviews will be conducted with Medicaid managed care administrators and obstetric and pediatric providers, and focus groups will be conducted among Medicaid beneficiaries. Quantitative data on healthcare utilization, healthcare quality, and health outcomes among pregnant and parenting people will be extracted from administrative Medicaid healthcare data. Primary outcomes are stakeholder perspectives on policy intervention implementation (qualitative) and timely prenatal care, pregnancy and birth outcomes, and well-child visits (quantitative). Template analysis methods will be applied to qualitative data. Quantitative analyses will use an interrupted time series design to examine changes over time in outcomes among Black people, relative to people of other races, before and after adoption of the Pennsylvania Medicaid equity-focused policy interventions. DISCUSSION Findings from this study are expected to advance knowledge about how Medicaid programs can best implement policy interventions to promote racial equity in pregnancy and early childhood health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marian Jarlenski
- Department of Health Policy and Management, University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health, 130 DeSoto St, A619, 15261, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
| | - Evan Cole
- Department of Health Policy and Management, University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health, 130 DeSoto St, A619, 15261, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Christine McClure
- Department of Health Policy and Management, University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health, 130 DeSoto St, A619, 15261, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Sarah Sanders
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Marquita Smalls
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Dara D Méndez
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Lucas A, Mlawer S, Weaver K, Caldwell J, Baig A, Zasadazinski L, Saunders M. Chicago Neighborhood Context and Racial/Ethnic Disparities in Maternal Diabetes. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2023:10.1007/s40615-023-01892-z. [PMID: 38157197 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-023-01892-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine if rates of maternal diabetes vary by race, ethnicity, and neighborhood hardship. METHODS We conducted a secondary analysis of live births in Chicago from 2010 to 2017. Our sample was restricted to Non-Hispanic White, Non-Hispanic Black, Mexican, Non-Hispanic Asian, and Other Hispanic mothers between the ages of 15 and 50, with singleton births. The addresses of mothers were geocoded to specific neighborhoods, which we stratified into tertiles using the Economic Hardship Index. We used generalized logit mixed models to examine the interaction between race/ethnicity, neighborhood economic hardship, and maternal diabetes. RESULTS In our cohort of 299,053 mothers, 4.75% were diagnosed with gestational diabetes. Asian mothers had the highest frequency of gestational diabetes (8.3%), followed by Mexican mothers (6.8%). Within their respective racial/ethnic groups, Asian and Mexican mothers living in medium hardship neighborhoods had the highest odds of gestational diabetes compared to the reference group (OR 2.80, 95%CI 2.53, 3.19; OR 2.30, 95%CI 2.12, 2.49 respectively). Overall rates of preexisting diabetes were 0.9% and were highest among Mexican and Black mothers (1.26% and 1.06%, respectively). Asian mothers in medium hardship neighborhoods had the greatest odds of preexisting diabetes, among all Asian mothers and compared to the reference (OR 4.71 95% CI 3.60, 6.16). CONCLUSIONS For racial and ethnic minoritized mothers, gestational and preexisting diabetes do not increase in a step-wise fashion with neighborhood hardship; rates were often higher in low and medium hardship neighborhoods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anika Lucas
- Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA.
- Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA.
| | - Sophia Mlawer
- Data Science and Analytics, University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Julia Caldwell
- Department of Public Health Los Angeles County, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Arshiya Baig
- General Internal Medicine, University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Milda Saunders
- General Internal Medicine, University of Chicago Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Poliektov NE, Forrest AD, Easley KA, Smith AK, Dunlop AL, Badell ML, Michopoulos V, Dude CM. Characterization of the maternal serum inflammatory profile during pregnancy according to socioeconomic status. Am J Reprod Immunol 2023; 90:e13799. [PMID: 38009052 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM In pregnancy, lower socioeconomic status (SES) is associated with adverse outcomes, which is partly attributed to chronic inflammation. Our study compared the maternal serum cytokine profiles in patients with low and high SES. METHOD OF STUDY This retrospective cohort study compared maternal serum cytokine profiles between Medicaid-insured patients who delivered at an urban safety-net hospital (low SES) and privately-insured patients who delivered at a community-based academic hospital (high SES) in Atlanta, GA (n = 32-33/group). Serum samples were obtained during prenatal venipuncture from 13 to 38 weeks' gestation and the cohorts were matched by gestational age. Interferon (IFN)-γ, Interleukin (IL)-10, IL-1β, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, and Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF)-α were assayed from maternal serum samples using a standard ELISA assay. RESULTS Median concentrations of IL-6, a promotor of chronic inflammation, were higher in the low SES group (0.85 vs. 0.49 pg/mL, p < .001), while median levels of IL-1β, a potent monocyte activator, and TNF-α, a master regulator of acute inflammation, were lower in the low SES group (0.09 vs. 0.46 pg/mL, p < .001, and 1.23 vs. 1.58 pg/mL, p = .002, respectively) as compared to the high SES group. After adjusting for maternal age, obesity, hypertensive disorders, and gestational age at delivery, the differences in IL-6 and IL-1β by SES persisted (p = .0002 and p < .0001, respectively). CONCLUSIONS In this retrospective cohort study, there were significant differences in levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines during pregnancy for groups defined by SES, even after adjustment for confounding variables. Our data are foundational for further research to investigate SES-associated inflammation that may contribute to adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natalie E Poliektov
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Alexandra D Forrest
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Kirk A Easley
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Alicia K Smith
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Anne L Dunlop
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Martina L Badell
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Vasiliki Michopoulos
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Carolynn M Dude
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Evans SP, Ailes EC, Kramer MR, Shumate CJ, Reefhuis J, Insaf TZ, Yazdy MM, Carmichael SL, Romitti PA, Feldkamp ML, Neo DT, Nembhard WN, Shaw GM, Palmi E, Gilboa SM. Neighborhood Deprivation and Neural Tube Defects. Epidemiology 2023; 34:774-785. [PMID: 37757869 PMCID: PMC10928547 DOI: 10.1097/ede.0000000000001655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Individual measures of socioeconomic status (SES) have been associated with an increased risk of neural tube defects (NTDs); however, the association between neighborhood SES and NTD risk is unknown. Using data from the National Birth Defects Prevention Study (NBDPS) from 1997 to 2011, we investigated the association between measures of census tract SES and NTD risk. METHODS The study population included 10,028 controls and 1829 NTD cases. We linked maternal addresses to census tract SES measures and used these measures to calculate the neighborhood deprivation index. We used generalized estimating equations to calculate adjusted odds ratios (aORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) estimating the impact of quartiles of census tract deprivation on NTDs adjusting for maternal race-ethnicity, maternal education, and maternal age at delivery. RESULTS Quartiles of higher neighborhood deprivation were associated with NTDs when compared with the least deprived quartile (Q2: aOR = 1.2; 95% CI = 1.0, 1.4; Q3: aOR = 1.3, 95% CI = 1.1, 1.5; Q4 (highest): aOR = 1.2; 95% CI = 1.0, 1.4). Results for spina bifida were similar; however, estimates for anencephaly and encephalocele were attenuated. Associations differed by maternal race-ethnicity. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that residing in a census tract with more socioeconomic deprivation is associated with an increased risk for NTDs, specifically spina bifida.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shannon Pruitt Evans
- Division of Birth Defects and Infant Disorders, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
- Eagle Global Scientific LLC, San Antonio, TX
| | - Elizabeth C. Ailes
- Division of Birth Defects and Infant Disorders, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | - Michael R. Kramer
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA
| | - Charles J. Shumate
- Birth Defects Epidemiology and Surveillance Branch, Texas Department of State Health Services, Austin, TX
| | - Jennita Reefhuis
- Division of Birth Defects and Infant Disorders, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | - Tabassum Z. Insaf
- New York State Department of Health, Albany, NY
- School of Public Health, University at Albany, Rensselaer, NY
| | - Mahsa M. Yazdy
- Center for Birth Defects Research and Prevention, Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Boston, MA
| | - Suzan L. Carmichael
- Division of Neonatal and Developmental Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Paul A. Romitti
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | - Marcia L. Feldkamp
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Dayna T. Neo
- Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Wendy N. Nembhard
- Department of Epidemiology, Fay W. Boozman College of Public Health, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR
| | - Gary M. Shaw
- Division of Neonatal and Developmental Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Elizabeth Palmi
- Division of Birth Defects and Infant Disorders, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
- Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, Oak Ridge, TN
| | - Suzanne M. Gilboa
- Division of Birth Defects and Infant Disorders, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA
| | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Moore N, Abouhala S, Maleki P, Kheyfets A, Carvalho K, Amutah-Onukagha N. The Efficacy of Provider-Based Prenatal Interventions to Reduce Maternal Stress: A Systematic Review. Womens Health Issues 2023; 33:300-311. [PMID: 37019762 DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2023.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Exposure to stress during the prenatal period is often associated with adverse maternal and neonatal health outcomes and is increasing in prevalence in the United States. Health care providers play a crucial role in addressing and mitigating this stress, but there is a lack of consensus in effective interventions. This review evaluates the effectiveness of prenatal provider-based interventions that reduce stress for pregnant people, especially those who are disproportionately affected by stress. METHODS A search of relevant English-language literature was conducted using PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science, Embase, and PyscInfo. Inclusion criteria were 1) the target population was pregnant people, 2) the intervention was delivered within the U.S. health care system, and 3) the study intervention had the goal of reducing stress (stress-reducing intervention). RESULTS A total of 3,562 records were identified in the search and 23 were included in analysis. The four identified categories for provider-led stress-reducing prenatal interventions included in the review are 1) skills-building, 2) mindfulness, 3) behavioral therapy, and 4) group support. Findings suggest an increased overall likelihood of mood and maternal stress improvement among pregnant people who complete provider-based stress-reducing interventions, especially group-based therapies that integrated resource allocation, skills-building, mindfulness, and/or behavioral therapy into an intersectional program. However, the efficacy of each type of intervention varies by category and type of maternal stress targeted. CONCLUSIONS Although few studies demonstrated a significant reduction in stress for pregnant people, this review highlights the critical need for increased research and attention to stress-reducing interventions in the prenatal period, especially as it pertains to minoritized populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nichole Moore
- Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts.
| | | | - Pegah Maleki
- Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Anna Kheyfets
- Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Keri Carvalho
- Department of Public Health & Community Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Ndidiamaka Amutah-Onukagha
- Department of Public Health & Community Medicine, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Panelli DM, Chan CS, Shaw JG, Shankar M, Kimerling R, Frayne SM, Herrero TC, Lyell DJ, Phibbs CS. An exploratory analysis of factors associated with spontaneous preterm birth among pregnant veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder. Womens Health Issues 2023; 33:191-198. [PMID: 37576490 PMCID: PMC10421070 DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2022.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pregnant veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are at increased risk for spontaneous preterm birth, yet the underlying reasons are unclear. We examined factors associated with spontaneous preterm birth among pregnant veterans with active PTSD. METHODS This was an observational study of births from administrative databases reimbursed by the Veterans Health Association (VA) between 2005 and 2015. Singleton livebirths among veterans with active PTSD within 12 months prior to childbirth were included. The primary outcome was spontaneous preterm birth. Maternal demographics, psychiatric history, and pregnancy complications were evaluated as exposures. Covariates significant on bivariate analysis, as well as age and race/ethnicity as a social construct, were included in multivariable logistic regression to identify factors associated with spontaneous preterm birth. Additional analyses stratified significant covariates by the presence of active concurrent depression and explored interactions between antidepressant use and preeclampsia. RESULTS Of 3,242 eligible births to veterans with active PTSD, 249 (7.7%) were spontaneous preterm births. The majority of veterans with active PTSD (79.1%) received some type of mental health treatment, and active concurrent depression was prevalent (61.4%). Preeclampsia/eclampsia (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 3.30, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.67-6.54) and ≥6 antidepressant medication dispensations within 12 months prior to childbirth (aOR 1.89, 95% CI 1.29-2.77) were associated with spontaneous preterm birth. No evidence of interaction was seen between antidepressant use and preeclampsia on spontaneous preterm birth (p=0.39). Findings were similar when stratified by active concurrent depression. CONCLUSION Among veterans with active PTSD, preeclampsia/eclampsia and ≥6 antidepressant dispensations were associated with spontaneous preterm birth. While the results do not imply that people should discontinue needed antidepressants during pregnancy in veterans with PTSD, research into these factors might inform preterm birth prevention strategies for this high-risk population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danielle M Panelli
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Obstetrics, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Caitlin S Chan
- VA Health Economics Resource Center (HERC), VA Palo Alto Health Care System, 795 Willow Rd, Bldg 324 152-MPD Ci2i, Menlo Park, CA, USA
| | - Jonathan G Shaw
- VA HSR&D Center for Innovation to Implementation (Ci2i), VA Palo Alto Health Care System, 795 Willow Rd, Bldg 324 152-MPD Ci2i, Menlo Park, CA, USA
- Stanford University Center for Primary Care and Outcomes Research (PCOR) and Center for Health Policy (CHP), 616 Jane Stanford Way, Stanford, CA, USA
- Division of Primary Care & Population Health, Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Megha Shankar
- VA Health Economics Resource Center (HERC), VA Palo Alto Health Care System, 795 Willow Rd, Bldg 324 152-MPD Ci2i, Menlo Park, CA, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA
| | - Rachel Kimerling
- VA Health Economics Resource Center (HERC), VA Palo Alto Health Care System, 795 Willow Rd, Bldg 324 152-MPD Ci2i, Menlo Park, CA, USA
- National Center for PTSD, Dissemination and Training Division, VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Menlo Park, CA, USA
| | - Susan M Frayne
- Division of Primary Care & Population Health, Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Women's Health Evaluation Initiative, VA Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Tiffany C Herrero
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Obstetrics, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Deirdre J Lyell
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Obstetrics, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Ciaran S Phibbs
- VA Health Economics Resource Center (HERC), VA Palo Alto Health Care System, 795 Willow Rd, Bldg 324 152-MPD Ci2i, Menlo Park, CA, USA
- VA HSR&D Center for Innovation to Implementation (Ci2i), VA Palo Alto Health Care System, 795 Willow Rd, Bldg 324 152-MPD Ci2i, Menlo Park, CA, USA
- Stanford University Center for Primary Care and Outcomes Research (PCOR) and Center for Health Policy (CHP), 616 Jane Stanford Way, Stanford, CA, USA
- Division of Neonatal and Developmental Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Wang Y, Tzeng JY, Huang Y, Maguire R, Hoyo C, Allen TK. Duration of exposure to epidural anesthesia at delivery, DNA methylation in umbilical cord blood and their association with offspring asthma in Non-Hispanic Black women. ENVIRONMENTAL EPIGENETICS 2022; 9:dvac026. [PMID: 36694712 PMCID: PMC9854336 DOI: 10.1093/eep/dvac026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Epidural anesthesia is an effective pain relief modality, widely used for labor analgesia. Childhood asthma is one of the commonest chronic medical illnesses in the USA which places a significant burden on the health-care system. We recently demonstrated a negative association between the duration of epidural anesthesia and the development of childhood asthma; however, the underlying molecular mechanisms still remain unclear. In this study of 127 mother-child pairs comprised of 75 Non-Hispanic Black (NHB) and 52 Non-Hispanic White (NHW) from the Newborn Epigenetic Study, we tested the hypothesis that umbilical cord blood DNA methylation mediates the association between the duration of exposure to epidural anesthesia at delivery and the development of childhood asthma and whether this differed by race/ethnicity. In the mother-child pairs of NHB ancestry, the duration of exposure to epidural anesthesia was associated with a marginally lower risk of asthma (odds ratio = 0.88, 95% confidence interval = 0.76-1.01) for each 1-h increase in exposure to epidural anesthesia. Of the 20 CpGs in the NHB population showing the strongest mediation effect, 50% demonstrated an average mediation proportion of 52%, with directional consistency of direct and indirect effects. These top 20 CpGs mapped to 21 genes enriched for pathways engaged in antigen processing, antigen presentation, protein ubiquitination and regulatory networks related to the Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) class I complex and Nuclear Factor Kappa-B (NFkB) complex. Our findings suggest that DNA methylation in immune-related pathways contributes to the effects of the duration of exposure to epidural anesthesia on childhood asthma risk in NHB offspring.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yaxu Wang
- Bioinformatics Research Center, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Jung-Ying Tzeng
- Bioinformatics Research Center, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695-7633, USA
- Department of Statistics, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Yueyang Huang
- Bioinformatics Research Center, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Rachel Maguire
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695-7633, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Cathrine Hoyo
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA
| | - Terrence K Allen
- Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Gilbert CS, Xaverius PK, Tibbits MK, Sappenfield WM. Refreshing the Perinatal Periods of Risk: A New Reference Group and Nationwide Large-County-Level Analyses. Matern Child Health J 2022; 26:2396-2406. [PMID: 36183285 DOI: 10.1007/s10995-022-03561-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The Perinatal Periods of Risk approach (PPOR) is designed for use by communities to assess and address the causes of high fetal-infant mortality rates using vital records data. The approach is widely used by local health departments and their community and academic partners to inform and motivate systems changes. PPOR was developed and tested in communities based on data years from 1995 to 2002. Unfortunately, a national reference group has not been published since then, primarily due to fetal death data quality limitations. METHODS This paper assesses data quality and creates a set of unbiased national reference groups using 2014-2016 national vital records data. Phase 1 and Phase 2 analytic methods were used to divide excess mortality into six components and create percentile plots to summarize the distribution of 100 large US counties for each component. RESULTS Eight states with poor fetal death data quality were omitted from the reference groups to reduce bias due to missing maternal demographic information. There are large Black-White disparities among reference groups with the same age and education restrictions, and these vary by component. PPOR results vary by region, maternal demographics, and county. The magnitude of excess mortality components varies widely across US counties. DISCUSSION New national reference groups will allow more communities to do PPOR. Percentile plots of 100 large US counties provide an additional benchmark for new communities using PPOR and help emphasize problem areas and potential solutions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carol S Gilbert
- CityMatCH and the Division of Child Health Policy, Department of Pediatrics, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 982155, Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA.
| | - Pamela K Xaverius
- Maternal and Child Health Center of Excellence in Education, Science, and Practice, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College for Public Health and Social Justice, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, USA.,Research and Scholarly Activity, University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy in St. Louis, 1 Pharmacy Place, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Melissa K Tibbits
- Health Promotion, College of Public Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - William M Sappenfield
- The Chiles Center, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
White VanGompel E, Lai J, Davis D, Carlock F, Camara TL, Taylor B, Clary C, McCorkle‐Jamieson AM, McKenzie‐Sampson S, Gay C, Armijo A, Lapeyrolerie L, Singh L, Scott KA. Psychometric validation of a patient-reported experience measure of obstetric racism© (The PREM-OB Scale™ suite). Birth 2022; 49:514-525. [PMID: 35301757 PMCID: PMC9544169 DOI: 10.1111/birt.12622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Perinatal quality improvement lacks valid tools to measure adverse hospital experiences disproportionately impacting Black mothers and birthing people. Measuring and mitigating harm requires using a framework that centers the lived experiences of Black birthing people in evaluating inequitable care, namely, obstetric racism. We sought to develop a valid patient-reported experience measure (PREM) of Obstetric Racism© in hospital-based intrapartum care designed for, by, and with Black women as patient, community, and content experts. METHODS PROMIS© instrument development standards adapted with cultural rigor methodology. Phase 1 included item pool generation, modified Delphi method, and cognitive interviews. Phase 2 evaluated the item pool using factor analysis and item response theory. RESULTS Items were identified or written to cover 7 previously identified theoretical domains. 806 Black mothers and birthing people completed the pilot test. Factor analysis concluded a 3 factor structure with good fit indices (CFI = 0.931-0.977, RMSEA = 0.087-0.10, R2 > .3, residual correlation < 0.15). All items in each factor fit the IRT model and were able to be calibrated. Factor 1, "Humanity," had 31 items measuring experiences of safety and accountability, autonomy, communication, and empathy. A 12-item short form was created to ease respondent burden. Factor 2, "Racism," had 12 items measuring experiences of neglect and mistreatment. Factor 3, "Kinship," had 7 items measuring hospital denial and disruption of relationships between Black mothers and their child or support system. CONCLUSIONS The PREM-OB Scale™ suite is a valid tool to characterize and quantify obstetric racism for use in perinatal improvement initiatives.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emily White VanGompel
- Departments of Family Medicine and Obstetrics and GynecologyPritzker School of MedicineThe University of ChicagoChicagoIllinoisUSA,NorthShore University HealthSystem (NSUHS) Research InstituteEvanstonIllinoisUSA
| | - Jin‐Shei Lai
- Departments of Medical Social Sciences and PediatricsNorthwestern University Feinberg School of MedicineEvanstonIllinoisUSA
| | - Dána‐Ain Davis
- Queens CollegeCity University of New YorkNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Francesca Carlock
- NorthShore University HealthSystem (NSUHS) Research InstituteEvanstonIllinoisUSA
| | | | - Brianne Taylor
- California Preterm Birth InitiativeUniversity of CaliforniaSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Chakiya Clary
- California Preterm Birth InitiativeUniversity of CaliforniaSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Ashlee M. McCorkle‐Jamieson
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive SciencesUniversity of California San FranciscoSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA,Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyHighland General HospitalAlameda Health SystemOaklandCaliforniaUSA
| | - Safyer McKenzie‐Sampson
- California Preterm Birth InitiativeUniversity of CaliforniaSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA,Department of Epidemiology & BiostatisticsUniversity of California San Francisco School of MedicineSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Caryl Gay
- Department of Family Health Care NursingUniversity of California San FranciscoSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Amanda Armijo
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive SciencesUniversity of California San FranciscoSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Lillie Lapeyrolerie
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive SciencesUniversity of California San FranciscoSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| | - Lavisha Singh
- Queens CollegeCity University of New YorkNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Karen A. Scott
- Birthing Cultural Rigor, LLCOaklandCaliforniaUSA,Departments of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, and Humanities and Social SciencesUniversity of California San Francisco School of MedicineSan FranciscoCaliforniaUSA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Understanding and Reducing Persistent Racial Disparities in Preterm Birth: a Model of Stress-Induced Developmental Plasticity. Reprod Sci 2022; 29:2051-2059. [PMID: 35298790 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-022-00903-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2021] [Accepted: 02/27/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Preterm birth is a leading cause of neonatal mortality and is characterized by substantial racial disparities in the US. Despite efforts to reduce preterm birth, rates have risen and racial disparities persist. Maternal stress is a risk factor for preterm birth; however, often, it is treated as a secondary variable rather than a primary target for intervention. Stress is known to affect several biological processes leading to downstream sequelae. Here, we present a model of stress-induced developmental plasticity where maternal stress is a key environmental cue impacting the length of gestation and therefore a primary target for intervention. Black women experience disproportionate and unique maternal stressors related to perceived racism and discrimination. It is therefore not surprising that Black women have disproportionate rates of preterm birth. The downstream effects of racism on preterm birth pathophysiology may reflect an appropriate response to stressors through the highly conserved maternal-fetal-placental neuroendocrine stress axis. This environmentally sensitive system mediates both maternal stress and the timing of birth and is a mechanism by which developmental plasticity occurs. Fortunately, stress does not appear to be an all-or-none variable. Evidence suggests that developmental plasticity is dynamic, functioning on a continuum. Therefore, simple, stress-reducing interventions that support pregnant women may tangibly reduce rates of preterm birth and improve birth outcomes for all women, particularly Black women.
Collapse
|
13
|
Keenan-Devlin L, Smart BP, Grobman W, Adams E, Freedman A, Buss C, Entringer S, Miller GE, Borders AEB. The intersection of race and socioeconomic status is associated with inflammation patterns during pregnancy and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Am J Reprod Immunol 2021; 87:e13489. [PMID: 34958140 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preterm birth rates are higher among individuals of lower socioeconomic status and non-White race, which is possibly related to life-course stressors. It is important to better understand the underlying mechanisms of these health disparities, and inflammation is a possible pathway to explain the disparities in birth outcomes. OBJECTIVE In this study, we aimed to determine whether patterns of inflammation differed by maternal race and socioeconomic status. STUDY DESIGN 744 participants in a multi-site, prospective study of pregnancy and birth outcomes provided biological and psychological data between 12'0-20'6 weeks gestation. Participants with recent infection, fever, antibiotics or steroid treatment were excluded. Cytokines including INFɣ, IL-10, IL-13, IL-6, IL-8, and TNFα, and the acute phase protein CRP were measured in serum and values and were log-transformed for normality when appropriate and a non-orthogonal rotation (Oblimid) was performed to allow the extracted factor to inter-correlate. IFNγ, IL-8, IL-10, IL-6, TNF-a, and IL-13 loaded onto Inflammatory Factor 1 (IF-1), while CRP and IL-6 loaded onto Inflammatory Factor 2 (IF-2). Race and education were collected via self-report during an in-person study visit. Multivariable models were used to determine the association of race and SES with IF-1 and IF-2 during the second trimester, and a mediation model to examine if inflammation is on the causal pathway. Models were adjusted for study site, prenatal age, pre-pregnancy BMI, smoking during pregnancy, and gestational age at the time of blood collection. RESULTS 605 participants were included in our final analysis, with 61.2 % of low or moderate SES, and 35.5% identifying as a person of color (POC). Identifying as a POC, being of low and moderate SES, and being both low-SES and POC or Moderate-SES and POC were associated with higher odds of preterm birth and lower birth weight percentile infants. Low SES POC participants had significantly higher IF-1 and IF-2 scores when compared to high-SES White participants. Additionally, higher IF-1and IF-2 were associated with shorter gestation. In the mediation analysis, we observed a significant direct effect of race/SES on preterm birth, however the results did not support an indirect pathway where IF-1 or IF-2 acted as mediators. CONCLUSION Maternal race and SES are significantly associated with inflammatory biomarkers during pregnancy, and when race and SES are considered in combination, they are stronger predictors of adverse pregnancy outcomes than when evaluated separately. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Keenan-Devlin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, NorthShore University HealthSystem, University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, Evanston, IL
| | - Britney P Smart
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, NorthShore University HealthSystem, Evanston, IL
| | - William Grobman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine; Center for Healthcare Studies - Institute for Public Health and Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL
| | - Emma Adams
- Institute for Policy Research, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL
| | - Alexa Freedman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, NorthShore University HealthSystem, University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, Institute for Policy Research, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL
| | - Claudia Buss
- UC Irvine Development, Health and Disease Research Program, University of California Irvine; Department of Medical Psychology, Charité, University Medicine Berlin, Germany
| | - Sonja Entringer
- Department of Medical Psychology, Charité, University Medicine Berlin, Germany
| | - Gregory E Miller
- Department of Psychology, Northwestern University, Institute for Policy Research, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL
| | - Ann E B Borders
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, NorthShore University Health System, University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine; Center for Healthcare Studies-Institute for Public Health and Medicine, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Manuck TA, Eaves LA, Rager JE, Sheffield-Abdullah K, Fry RC. Nitric oxide-related gene and microRNA expression in peripheral blood in pregnancy vary by self-reported race. Epigenetics 2021; 17:731-745. [PMID: 34308756 DOI: 10.1080/15592294.2021.1957576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Adverse pregnancy outcomes disproportionately affect non-Hispanic (NH) Black patients in the United States. Structural racism has been associated with increased psychosocial distress and inflammation and may trigger oxidative stress. Thus, the nitric oxide (NO) pathway (involved in the regulation of inflammation and oxidative stress) may partly explain the underlying disparities in obstetric outcomes.Cohort study of 154 pregnant patients with high-risk obstetric histories; n = 212 mRNAs and n = 108 microRNAs (miRNAs) in the NO pathway were evaluated in circulating white blood cells. NO pathway mRNA and miRNA transcript counts were compared by self-reported race; NH Black patients were compared with women of other races/ethnicities. Finally, miRNA-mRNA expression levels were correlated.Twenty-two genes (q < 0.10) were differentially expressed in self-identified NH Black individuals. Superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1), interleukin-8 (IL-8), dynein light chain LC8-type 1 (DYNLL1), glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), and glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPX1) were the five most differentially expressed genes among NH Black patients compared to other patients. There were 63 significantly correlated miRNA-mRNA pairs (q < 0.10) demonstrating potential miRNA regulation of associated target mRNA expression. Ten miRNAs that were identified as members of significant miRNA-mRNA pairs were also differentially expressed among NH Black patients (q < 0.10).These findings support an association between NO pathway and inflammation and infection-related mRNA and miRNA expression in blood drawn during pregnancy and patient race/ethnicity. These findings may reflect key differences in the biology of inflammatory gene dysregulation that occurs in response to the stress of systemic racism and that underlies disparities in pregnancy outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tracy A Manuck
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States.,Institute for Environmental Health Solutions, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Lauren A Eaves
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Julia E Rager
- Institute for Environmental Health Solutions, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC.,Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC
| | | | - Rebecca C Fry
- Institute for Environmental Health Solutions, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC.,Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Reece J. More Than Shelter: Housing for Urban Maternal and Infant Health. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:3331. [PMID: 33805125 PMCID: PMC8037986 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18073331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Housing quality, stability, and affordability have a direct relationship to socioemotional and physical health. Both city planning and public health have long recognized the role of housing in health, but the complexity of this relationship in regard to infant and maternal health is less understood. Focusing on literature specifically relevant to U.S. metropolitan areas, I conduct a multidisciplinary literature review to understand the influence of housing factors and interventions that impact infant and maternal health. The paper seeks to achieve three primary goals. First, to identify the primary "pathways" by which housing influences infant and maternal health. Second, the review focuses on the role and influence of historical housing discrimination on maternal health outcomes. Third, the review identifies emergent practice-based housing interventions in planning and public health practice to support infant and maternal health. The literature suggests that the impact of housing on infant health is complex, multifaceted, and intergenerational. Historical housing discrimination also directly impacts contemporary infant and maternal health outcomes. Policy interventions to support infant health through housing are just emerging but demonstrate promising outcomes. Structural barriers to housing affordability in the United States will require new resources to foster greater collaboration between the housing and the health sectors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jason Reece
- Knowlton School of Architecture, Faculty Affiliate, The Kirwan Institute for the Study of Race & Ethnicity, The Ohio State University, 275 West Woodruff Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| |
Collapse
|