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A Novel Method for Involving Women of Color at High Risk for Preterm Birth in Research Priority Setting
14:43

A Novel Method for Involving Women of Color at High Risk for Preterm Birth in Research Priority Setting

Published on: January 12, 2018

Closing the gap, opening the process: why study social contributors to preterm delivery among black women

D L Rowley1

  • 1National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.

Maternal and Child Health Journal
|September 28, 2001
PubMed

Insights

The persistent racial gap in preterm birth rates among African American families requires a multidisciplinary approach. Understanding social stressors and racism is crucial for developing effective interventions to eliminate this disparity.

Area of Science:

  • Reproductive Health
  • Social Epidemiology
  • Health Disparities

Background:

  • Significant disparities exist in infant mortality, VLBW, and preterm delivery rates between African American and white families in the U.S.
  • These disparities, termed 'the gap,' necessitate a comprehensive investigation into their underlying causes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore the multifaceted causes of the racial gap in preterm birth.
  • To identify potential interventions for eliminating preterm birth disparities.

Main Methods:

  • Employed a multidisciplinary approach involving anthropologists, sociologists, medical researchers, and epidemiologists.
  • Examined biologic pathways, stressors, and the social environment associated with preterm birth.
  • Incorporated lived experiences and theoretical interpretations from study participants.

Main Results:

  • Highlighted the need to study the social and political impact of being an African American woman.
  • Identified racism and the combined effects of gender, racism, and social position as potential contributing factors.
  • Emphasized the importance of integrating participant perspectives in understanding causes and prevention.

Conclusions:

  • A multidisciplinary approach is essential for understanding and addressing the racial gap in preterm birth.
  • Social determinants, including racism and systemic inequities, play a critical role in preterm birth disparities.
  • Future research should prioritize community-engaged methodologies and incorporate lived experiences to inform interventions.

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