Global research priorities for COVID-19 in maternal, reproductive and child health: Results of an international survey

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0257516
• Publication Date: 2021-09-24T17:49:01Z
• Authors: Melanie Etti; Jackeline Alger; Sofía P. Salas; Robin Saggers; Tanusha Ramdin; Margit Endler; Kristina Gemzell-...; Tobias Alfvén; Yusuf Ahmed; Allison Callejas; Deborah Eskenazi; Asma Khalil; Kirsty Le Doare
• Keywords: Thematic Analysis; Delphi Method; Pandemic

Background The World Health Organization’s “ Coordinated Global Research Roadmap : 2019 Novel Coronavirus ” outlined the need for research that focuses on impact of COVID-19 pregnant women and children. More than one year after first reported case significant knowledge gaps remain, highlighting a coordinated approach. To address this need, Maternal, Newborn Child Working Group (MNCH WG) Clinical Coalition conducted an international survey to identify global priorities in maternal, reproductive child health. Method This project was undertaken using modified Delphi method. An electronic questionnaire disseminated clinicians researchers three different languages (English, French Spanish) via MNCH WG affiliated networks. Respondents were asked select five most urgent among list 17 identified by WG. Analysis data key similarities differences respondents according language, location specialty. Following elimination seven lowest ranking priorities, recirculated original pool respondents. Thematic analysis final from which four priority themes emerged. Results Questionnaire 1 completed 225 29 countries. 2 returned 49 emerged 1) access healthcare during pandemic, 2) direct 3) indirect effects breastfeeding children 4) transmission protection infection. Conclusion results these questionnaires indicated high level concordance continents specialties regarding themes. prioritized uncertainties, developed specifically highlight clinical needs as perceived professionals researchers, could help funding organizations answer pressing questions public health pandemic. It is hoped can focus discussion allocation limited resources enhance globally.