Understanding how stress during pregnancy affects iron deficiency anemia in mothers and infants

Machine learning methods to assess risk for prenatal and neonatal iron deficiency anemia from maternal stress exposure

NIH-funded research Northeastern University · NIH-11136629

This study is looking at how stress during pregnancy might affect iron levels in moms and their babies, especially for those from low-income and diverse backgrounds, to find better ways to prevent and treat iron deficiency anemia.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNortheastern University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11136629 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of maternal psychosocial stress during pregnancy on the risk of iron deficiency anemia (IDA) in both mothers and their infants. It aims to identify the biological and behavioral pathways that link stress to IDA, particularly focusing on low-income and racially-ethnically diverse populations who may be at higher risk. By utilizing machine learning methods, the study will analyze various factors that contribute to this condition, potentially leading to better prevention and treatment strategies. The findings could help in understanding how stress influences iron levels and overall health during and after pregnancy.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant women, particularly those experiencing psychosocial stress, especially from low-income or racially-ethnically diverse backgrounds.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those who do not experience significant psychosocial stress may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing iron deficiency anemia in pregnant women and their infants, enhancing maternal and neonatal health outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated a link between maternal stress and infant iron status, but this study aims to explore the underlying biological mechanisms, making it a novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Boston, 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.