Robertson Clinical Research Centre’s Post

Jefferson students and faculty presented their research on issues related to maternal and family-child health, substance use disorders and poverty and inequity at the inaugural “Community Roots of Recovery” conference presented by the Jefferson Center for Maternal Addiction Treatment, Education and Research. Med students Eva Varotsis and Sam Iovine examined low-income/low-access food areas, also known as “food deserts.” They sought ways for pregnant women to eat more nutritious meals when they didn’t have easy access to produce. A healthier diet can lower poor pregnancy outcomes, including preeclampsia, preterm labor and general morbidity. 👉 Read more: https://brnw.ch/21wKT70

Did you know around 8% of pregnant women in the U.S. are diagnosed with gestational diabetes? Globally, this number doubles! 🤰 Why is this so common? Join us with Dr. Thomas Moore, head of the high-risk OB clinic at UCSD, as he breaks down: • Who’s at risk • Screening & diagnosis process • Risks for mom & baby • Treatment protocols • What happens post-delivery Stay informed and empowered! 💪 Listen to the full episode: https://bit.ly/4c7ur0g . . . . #myAMCR #HeadlandsResearchAMCR #GestationalDiabetes #DiabeticPregnancy #PregnantWithDiabetes #DiabetesManagement #DiabetesHealth #LivingWithDiabetes

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is a preventable yet lifelong condition caused by alcohol exposure during pregnancy. It can severely impact both physical and cognitive development, leading to health and behavioural challenges. In Australia, where 77% of people aged 14+ drink alcohol, awareness is critical. Many pregnancies are unplanned, and women often consume alcohol in the early stages, unaware of the potential harm. Early weeks of pregnancy are the most sensitive to alcohol exposure, increasing the risk of FASD. Raising awareness is key, not just for expecting mothers but also for partners and the broader community. Fathers' and partners' alcohol consumption also play an important role, research shows that women are more likely to stop drinking if supported by their partner. FASD prevention must focus on education, support, and reducing stigma. Please note: this is not a real news article and has been created based on my own research. #FASD #Awareness #Prevention #HealthEducation #Support

CHI experts are exploring different facets of life with CHD. Our sub-study on maternal health aims to empower patients to shape future maternal care, with the goal of reducing pregnancy-related stress and anxiety for people with CHD. More details to come in our annual report! Adult Congenital Heart Association

Step in the right direction

#Preconception health services work to optimize individual health, address modifiable risk factors to prepare for any future pregnancies, and are a core family planning service. Watch our latest video to for an overview of preconception health services and how they can help reduce disparities in maternal health outcomes: https://lnkd.in/gqvWQeZi

CTA #33 (in progress) https://lnkd.in/gGAvycNE Why “In Progress?” Budget 2017 of the Federal Government allocated an “additional” $10.5M over 5 years with $3.7M ongoing to the Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Program beyond the $14.2M allocated annually prior to 2017-2018. By 2022 the annual funding will have increased from $16.3M to $17.9M as part of an existing suite of services aimed to improve health outcomes for First Nations and Inuit children, families and communities. No mention of Métis. The objective of the funding is to increase awareness and understanding of the risks of alcohol use in pregnancy and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder within urban, rural or remote off-reserve Indigenous communities and among service providers who support Indigenous peoples of childbearing age

Family connectedness, particularly at meal times – excellent protective factor: The scientists are catching up – Research confirms what all community minded and family valuing people know. Family togetherness is a key to not only better health and well-being, but also building resilience into the emerging adult – resilience that can make it easier for them to avoid the substance use trap. (https://lnkd.in/giK9wsM6) #resilience #prevention #DemandReduction “Eating dinner together at least 3 or 4 times per week has positive effects on child development and has been linked to children’s lower rates of overweight and obesity, substance abuse, teen pregnancy, depression, and eating disorders; higher self-esteem; and better academic performance. Eating family meals also has nutritional benefits. Families who eat dinner together eat more fruits and vegetables and fewer fried foods and sugary drinks. Family meals also help adults and children learn to like a variety of foods.” (Source: JAMA Paediatrics) https://lnkd.in/gvNy_TNf

Family basics a key protective factor... also see https://lnkd.in/gSAdAwex

Following the announcements made in April 2024 of $2 million toward Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) initiatives, today Minister of Health Dr Shane Reti announced a $4.85 million package of initiatives aimed at understanding the prevalence of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), promoting better education and supporting women to stay alcohol free during pregnancy at the FASD Symposium in Tamaki Makaurau hosted by Alcohol Healthwatch. The three initiatives announced were: 1. Undertaking an FASD prevalence study, to understand the true nature of the challenge FASD presents in New Zealand, rather than relying on extrapolated overseas data. 2. Providing structured education for clinical and community settings to grow FASD awareness and capacity in communities and across health, disability and social services. 3. Supporting initiatives that promote alcohol-free pregnancies and reduce the stigma of FASD. See full release here: https://lnkd.in/gdfs_UTt