Identifying ways to reduce severe maternal health disparities among women of color

Building a causal pathway framework to identify interventions to eliminate racial/ethnic disparities in severe maternal morbidity

NIH-funded research Stanford University · NIH-10879079

This study is looking into why more women, especially Black and Native American women, are facing serious health issues during pregnancy and after childbirth in the U.S., and it aims to find ways to improve their care and health outcomes.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionStanford University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Stanford, United States)
Project IDNIH-10879079 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the rising rates of severe maternal morbidity (SMM) in the U.S., particularly among Black and Native American women. It aims to develop a causal pathway framework that links social determinants of health with clinical factors to better understand and address these disparities. By analyzing a unique dataset from six states, the research will identify actionable strategies to improve maternal health outcomes and eliminate inequities. Patients may benefit from insights that lead to improved healthcare practices and policies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant women of color, particularly Black and Native American women, who are at higher risk for severe maternal morbidity.

Not a fit: Patients who do not identify as women of color or who are not currently pregnant may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to significant improvements in maternal health outcomes for women of color, reducing the risk of severe complications during pregnancy and childbirth.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has highlighted the importance of addressing social determinants of health in maternal care, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Stanford, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.