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Updated: Nov 27, 2025

A Novel Method for Involving Women of Color at High Risk for Preterm Birth in Research Priority Setting
Published on: January 12, 2018
Racial and ethnic representation in epigenomic studies of preterm birth: a systematic review
Ai-Ris Y Collier1,2, Rachel Ledyard3, Diana Montoya-Williams3,4
1Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02215, USA.
Abstract:
Aim: We conducted a systematic review evaluating race/ethnicity representation in DNA methylomic studies of preterm birth. Data sources: PubMed, EMBASE, CINHAL, Scopus and relevant citations from 1 January 2000 to 30 June 2019. Study appraisal & synthesis methods: Two authors independently identified abstracts comparing DNA methylomic differences between term and preterm births that included race/ethnicity data. Results: 16 studies were included. Black and non-Hispanic Black deliveries were well represented (28%). However, large studies originating from more than 95% White populations were excluded due to unreported race/ethnicity data. Most studies were cross-sectional, allowing for reverse causation. Most studies were also racially/ethnically homogeneous, preventing direct comparison of DNA methylomic differences across race/ethnicities. Conclusion: In DNA methylomic studies, Black women and infants were well represented. However, the literature has limitations and precludes drawing definitive conclusions.
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