Identifying research priorities for gestational weight gain in India: A national exercise

Background and objectives Gestational weight gain is an important indicator of maternal and neonatal health, yet research on this topic in the Indian context remains limited. We conducted a research-setting exercise to identify priority research questions related to gestational weight gain in the Indian context, aiming to guide researchers and policymakers. Methods We used a hybrid approach combining Child Health and Nutrition research Initiative (CHNRI) and a modified James Lind Alliance- Priority Setting Partnership (JLA-PSP). The four CHNRI steps produced an interim priority list, which was refined through the modified JLA-PSP to finalise the priorities Result Sixty researchers participated in the online survey, yielding 54 questions (response rate:30%). These were consolidated into 12 questions across three domains- (a) development of standards and guidelines, (b) Epidemiology and determinants and (c) Evaluation of interventions and strategies for gestational weight gain. We calculated research priority scores, and average expert agreement. The expert group determined four priority questions, emphasising gestational weight gain cut-offs related to short- and long-term feto-maternal outcomes, determinants of gestational weight gain, and effective interventions. Interpretation and conclusion These priorities provide a roadmap for researchers and funders for targeted research in the area of gestational weight gain to improve maternal and child health outcomes in India.