Investigating how early-life stress affects maternal and infant health disparities

Racialized inequities in birth outcomes and maternal health following childbirth: the role of maternal early-life disadvantage, adolescent contexts, and pre-pregnancy stress

NIH-funded research University of Nevada Reno · NIH-10871380

This study looks at how stress that mothers faced when they were younger affects their health and the health of their babies, especially in different racial groups, to find ways to help improve outcomes for both moms and infants.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Nevada Reno NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Reno, United States)
Project IDNIH-10871380 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research examines the impact of social stressors experienced by mothers during their early life and adolescence on maternal and infant health outcomes. By analyzing data from a large longitudinal study, the project aims to uncover how these stressors contribute to racial disparities in birth outcomes. The study focuses on understanding the biosocial pathways that link early-life disadvantages to maternal health issues and birth weight variations. It seeks to identify critical factors that could inform interventions to improve health outcomes for mothers and infants.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include mothers and infants, particularly those from racial minority backgrounds who have experienced early-life disadvantages.

Not a fit: Patients who are not mothers or who do not belong to the racial groups being studied may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for addressing racial disparities in maternal and infant health.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that social stressors can significantly impact health outcomes, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Reno, 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.