Investigating racial disparities in preterm births and fetal losses

Racial disparities in preterm births and fetal losses

NIH-funded research University of California-Irvine · NIH-10877807

This study looks at why Black babies born early sometimes do better than white babies, by comparing birth and health outcomes for mothers of different backgrounds, and it aims to find out what factors might be causing these differences over the years.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California-Irvine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Irvine, United States)
Project IDNIH-10877807 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research examines the differences in preterm birth rates and fetal losses between non-Hispanic Black mothers and non-Hispanic white mothers. It aims to understand why Black infants, despite being born preterm, often show better health outcomes compared to their white counterparts. The study will analyze a large dataset of live births, infant deaths, and fetal deaths in the U.S. from 1995 to 2018 to identify trends and factors contributing to these disparities. By utilizing a structural racism framework, the research seeks to uncover the underlying causes of these differences and how they may have changed over time.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include non-Hispanic Black mothers who have experienced preterm births or fetal losses.

Not a fit: Patients who are not non-Hispanic Black or who have not experienced preterm births or fetal losses may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved health outcomes for infants by addressing the factors contributing to racial disparities in preterm births.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated a racial survival advantage among infants, but this study aims to provide updated insights and test existing theories, making it a novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Irvine, 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.