Improving maternal health for Indigenous mothers
Official title: Building Data Capacity for Maternal Health Equity
Funded at University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr · NIH-11020150 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at why Indigenous mothers in the U.S. face higher risks during pregnancy and after childbirth, and it aims to work with communities to find better ways to support their health before, during, and after having a baby.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Oklahoma City, United States) |
| Project start | August 17, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $200,680 |
| NIH project number | 3U54HD113173-02S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11020150 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are Indigenous mothers, specifically those who identify as American Indian, Alaskan Native, or Native American.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not identify as Indigenous or are not affected by maternal health disparities may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on addressing the high rates of maternal mortality and morbidity among Indigenous mothers in the U.S. by investigating the structural, social, and biobehavioral factors contributing to these disparities. The project aims to develop innovative solutions through community partnerships and interdisciplinary collaboration, targeting interventions in preconception, prenatal, and postpartum care. By engaging with tribal health partners, the research seeks to translate scientific findings into effective practices that can improve maternal health outcomes for Indigenous populations.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce maternal health disparities and improve outcomes for Indigenous mothers and their families.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in addressing health disparities through community-based interventions, making this approach promising yet tailored to the unique needs of Indigenous populations.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr
Oklahoma City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shreffler, Karina M. — University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr
- Study coordinator: Shreffler, Karina M.
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.