Global Network

Columbia University is a key participant in the Global Network for Women’s and Children’s Health Research. Dr. Robert Goldenberg and Dr. Blair Wylie serve as co-Principal Investigators for the Columbia University/Aga Khan University (AKU) Research Unit with Dr. Sarah Saleem of AKU serving as the foreign Principal Investigator in Karachi, Pakistan.  Since 2001, with support from the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF), the Global Network has worked to improve the health and survival of pregnant women, fetuses, and infants in low and middle-income countries through research partnerships in South Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa, and Latin America. Scientists from these countries partner with multidisciplinary teams from U.S. universities to address major causes of maternal and newborn mortality. This diverse and adaptable network was created to answer critical maternal and newborn health questions, aiming to enhance health outcomes by developing sustainable, cost-effective interventions and building research capacity in target regions. 

  Aims

  • Focus on high-need areas, such as obstetric emergencies, the enhancement of birthing practices, and survival for preterm babies 
  • Build health research capacity and infrastructure in low- and middle-income countries 
  • Test cost-effective and sustainable interventions 
  • Deliver real-world impact, providing guidance for national policy and evidence-based medicine 

Supported by RTI International, the Global Network's Data Coordinating Center provides expertise in trial design, data management, quality control, and study coordination. A Steering Committee, including representatives from each site, NICHD, and RTI, with input from an External Advisory group, guides the Network. 

In 2008, the Global Network established the Maternal Newborn Health Registry (MNHR) to support accurate reporting of pregnancy outcomes and analyze trends. Over one million pregnant women have been enrolled, providing crucial data to inform future studies and progress on the U.N. Sustainable Development Goals for maternal and newborn health. 

  Key Findings

  • A-PLUS Trial (2019-2023): A single oral dose of azithromycin significantly reduced the risk of maternal sepsis or death. 
  • ASPIRIN Trial (2016-2019): Daily low-dose aspirin during pregnancy lowers the risk of preterm birth. 
  • Women First Trial (2014-2019):  Maternal nutrition supplementation before conception or in the first trimester improves fetal growth.
  • First Look Trial (2014-2016):  Routine ultrasound during antenatal care did not improve maternal and neonatal outcomes.
  • ACT Trial (2011-2014):  Antenatal corticosteroids slightly increased neonatal death rates in preterm infants.  

Impact

The Global Network's research has provided crucial insights to prevent maternal and neonatal deaths in low and middle-income countries. These findings shape global public health policies, improve clinical practices, and significantly contribute to maternal and newborn health knowledge. The network has published over 300 scientific articles, influencing health guidelines worldwide and shaping the global research agenda. 

Faculty Active in this Area

For more information, visit the Global Network Website and the NICHD Global Network Page.