Investigating deaths related to drugs, self-harm, and violence during and after pregnancy in the US
Official title: Pregnancy-associated mortality and morbidity due to drugs, self-harm, and violence in the United States
Funded at Michigan State University · NIH-10909877 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into why more pregnant women and new moms in the U.S. are facing serious health issues or even dying due to drug use, self-harm, and violence, so we can better understand the problem and help those who are at risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Michigan State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (East Lansing, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2021 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $532,397 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HD102319-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10909877 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant women and new mothers, particularly those who may be experiencing issues related to drug use, self-harm, or violence.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not pregnant or new mothers, or those who do not face risks related to drugs, self-harm, or violence, may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to understand the rising rates of maternal mortality and morbidity associated with drug use, self-harm, and violence among pregnant women and new mothers in the United States. By analyzing national data, the study seeks to provide accurate estimates of these deaths, which are often underreported due to limitations in death certificate data. The research will also explore trends and disparities in these outcomes, as well as identify risk factors that could help healthcare providers better support at-risk women during pregnancy and the postpartum period.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved identification and support for pregnant women at risk of drug-related issues, self-harm, and violence, ultimately reducing maternal mortality and morbidity.
How similar studies have gone: While there has been significant research on maternal health, this specific focus on drug use, self-harm, and violence during and after pregnancy is relatively novel and has not been extensively studied.
Where this research is happening
-
Michigan State University
East Lansing, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Margerison, Claire E — Michigan State University
- Study coordinator: Margerison, Claire E
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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.