Improving newborn health by testing for malaria early in pregnancy

Improving Neonatal health Through Rapid malaria testing in Early Pregnancy with high-sensitivity Diagnostics (INTREPiD)

NIH-funded research Duke University · NIH-11061234

This study is looking to help pregnant women in sub-Saharan Africa by testing for malaria early in their pregnancy to see if it can lead to healthier babies and better birth weights compared to the usual care.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDuke University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Durham, United States)
Project IDNIH-11061234 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to reduce neonatal mortality in sub-Saharan Africa by implementing early malaria screening for pregnant women in their first trimester using high-sensitivity rapid diagnostic tests. The study will compare outcomes between women who receive standard care and those who are screened for malaria early in their pregnancy. By identifying and treating malaria infections sooner, the research seeks to improve birth weights and overall health outcomes for newborns. The approach is based on updated guidelines and the availability of effective treatments for malaria during early pregnancy.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant women in their first trimester living in sub-Saharan Africa.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those in regions outside of sub-Saharan Africa may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly lower the rates of low birth weight and neonatal mortality associated with malaria infections during pregnancy.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that early malaria screening and treatment can improve pregnancy outcomes, suggesting a strong potential for success with this approach.

Where this research is happening

Durham, 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 2026-06-13 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.