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A new project aims to protect pregnant women and their babies from a common – but dangerous – infection while tackling the growing global threat of antibiotic resistance.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a leading cause of death among expectant mothers and their children in parts of Kenya. Doctors are struggling to treat the infections, partly due to a lack of diagnosis and rising levels of antimicrobial resistance, where bacteria are no longer affected by antibiotics.

Now, researchers from De Montfort University Leicester (DMU) and the University of Kenya have collaborated to help improve health outcomes, first in Kisumu County, Kenya, with a population of more than 1.1 million people. The project has been awarded almost £80,000 by the International Science Partnership Fund, run by the British Council.

Dr. Shivanthi Samarasinghe, associate professor of microbial genetics and genomics, will lead the project at DMU together with co-researcher Professor Bertha Ochieng. Dr. Eunice Toko from Maseno University Kenya will lead the research activities from Kenya.

Dr. Samarasinghe said: “This partnership is about working together to reduce the number of women suffering from these types of infections that go undiagnosed, and the impact that can have on them and their unborn child.

“It builds on previous research we have done with colleagues in Kenya and we hope we can make a positive difference.”

The team will use their diagnostic expertise to help local healthcare professionals identify urinary tract infection-causing bacteria. The tests are quick and easy to perform and ensure that women can receive faster, more targeted treatments.

A second part of their work will focus on education, creating culturally inclusive and tailored advice for pregnant women, helping them understand the symptoms and risks and when to seek medical help. “We want to empower women to take control of their health,” Dr. Samarasinghe added.

By testing these strategies and measuring their impact on hospital practices, the project hopes to create a model that can be used in Kenya and other parts of sub-Saharan Africa.

“This collaboration goes beyond research,” says Dr. Samarasinghe. “It’s about equipping healthcare providers with better tools and empowering communities to reduce the burden of infections. It is a step toward healthier families and stronger health care systems.”

The initiative also supports the global health priorities identified by the World Health Organization to combat AMR and improve maternal health. With the potential to save lives and reduce healthcare costs, this innovative approach is a beacon of hope for regions with limited resources.

Posted on Wednesday, December 11, 2024