Non-Communicable Diseases in Pregnancy

This project focus on addressing NCDs in pregnancy as a growing but under-recognized threat to maternal and newborn health, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Conditions such as hypertension, pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes, cardiovascular disease, anemia, and mental health disorders significantly increase the risk of adverse pregnancy and birth outcomes when not detected and managed early. Our work explores how digital health tools, decision-support systems, and data-driven approaches can strengthen the prevention, early detection, and management of NCDs across the continuum of antenatal, intrapartum, and postnatal care. We emphasize integrated, people-centered models that support frontline health workers, improve continuity of care, and enhance referral and follow-up for high-risk pregnancies. Grounded in equity and health systems strengthening, our research also examines barriers to NCD care in pregnancy, including access to diagnostics, workforce constraints, gender norms, and social determinants of health. By partnering with ministries of health and communities, we aim to support scalable, ethical, and sustainable solutions that reduce maternal morbidity and mortality and improve long-term health for women and their children.