Overview:

ARCH represents the community-based component of the PRiSMA cohort, strategically designed to enhance our comprehension of the burden of adverse maternal and infant outcomes in low- and middle-income country (LMIC) settings. This pioneering initiative delves into the intricate journeys of pregnancy and postpartum experiences among women of reproductive age in Lusaka, Zambia. By studying these phases and their outcomes, ARCH seeks to identify critical factors that influence adverse outcomes, aiming to contribute significantly to improving our understanding of maternal and infant health in LMICs.

Goals:

Our primary aim is clear: to track and comprehend the dynamics of pregnancies, from preconception through postpartum periods. By studying structural, social, and clinical influencers, we aim to enhance our understanding of adverse outcomes in each stage of reproductive life.

Who’s Involved:

We’re inviting all women of reproductive age residing in selected areas within Nkoloma ward, Lusaka, Zambia, to be part of this study. Our target is to enroll about 5,500 women and identify around 750 new pregnancies annually.

Where We Work:

Focused on specific areas within Nkoloma ward, Chawama Constituency, Lusaka, Zambia

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Research team in the field
Research team preparing for field work

How Long and What to Expect:

Over 24 months, we plan to screen and enroll eligible women, following up with quarterly visits as part of our comprehensive approach. We’ll stop enrolling once we’ve met our goals, and for infants born during the study, we’ll observe them for 12 months to assess infant mortality.

What It Means for the Community:

The ARCH Household Survey is pivotal in unraveling the intricacies of reproductive and maternal health in Lusaka, Zambia. By linking with ongoing antenatal cohorts, this initiative becomes a cornerstone in comprehending the burden of adverse maternal and infant outcomes in low- and middle-income country (LMIC) settings. The insights gained from this research endeavor will pave the way for future trials aimed at enhancing the experiences and outcomes of pregnancy and childbirth.