What is the prevalence of Rhesus alloimmunization and associated poor outcomes among pregnant women in low and middle income countries?

Summary In this project, a student will conduct a systematic review aimed at identifying available evidence on the prevalence of Rhesus (Rh) alloimmunization amongst women giving birth in low- and middle-income countries.

Project Details

In pregnancy, Rhesus (Rh) negative mothers can develop Rh antibodies if they have an Rh-positive newborn. This can cause haemolytic disease of the newborn in subsequent pregnancies. Consequently, in 2016, WHO recommended that administering anti-D immunoglobulin to Rh- negative women within 72 hours of giving birth to an Rh-positive baby is an effective way of preventing RhD alloimmunization and newborn morbidity.

The 2016 guideline panel also identified that determining the prevalence of RhD alloimmunization and associated poor outcomes among women in low- and middle-income country (LMIC) settings is a research priority. Understanding the prevalence of RhD alloimmunization in different LMICs allows health decision-makers to prioritize the implementation of anti-D immunoglobulin programmes within the context of improving the quality of maternal and newborn healthcare.

In this project, a student will conduct a systematic review aimed at identifying available evidence on the prevalence of Rh alloimmunization amongst women giving birth in low- and middle-income countries. The student will work with the Global Women’s and Newborn’s Health Group at the Burnet Institute in Melbourne (primarily desk-based research). The project will allow the student to gain experience in global maternal and perinatal health and systematic review methodologies, with view to a scientific publication.