Capacity Building and Innovation in Caring for Non-communicable Diseases in Maternal Global Health: The Example of Haiti.

Abstract

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are important contributors to maternal morbidity and mortality worldwide. Yet, data on their prevalence and related outcomes in low-income countries are currently lacking. Additionally, screening and treatment protocols adapted for resource-limited settings are urgently required. This collaborative research initiative on the screening and management of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and gestational diabetes was conducted in Saint-Nicolas Hospital in Saint-Marc, Haiti. The report discusses methods used to overcome several local challenges to implementation of care for NCDs. It also describes how collaborative research initiatives are efficient strategies to innovate and build research capacity for NCD care delivery during pregnancy in low-income countries.