March of Dimes, an organization dedicated to improving maternal and infant health outcomes, is launching a new initiative to combat preeclampsia, a serious condition affecting pregnant women. Preeclampsia, which can lead to complications such as preterm birth and heart disease, impacts one in 25 pregnancies in the United States.
A simple and effective way to reduce the risk of preeclampsia is through a regimen of low-dose aspirin (LDA). Studies have shown that pregnant individuals at higher risk for preeclampsia who take LDA can reduce their risk by 15% and the risk of preterm birth by 20%.
Despite the benefits of LDA, a recent survey conducted by The Harris Poll for March of Dimes revealed that nearly 20% of families were unaware of preeclampsia, with this number rising to 25% among higher-risk groups such as Black families. Additionally, only 20% of families were familiar with the potential benefits of medical interventions like LDA.
To address this issue, March of Dimes has launched the ‘Low Dose, Big Benefits’ initiative, with support from various partners including pharma firm Sanofi, the HCA healthcare system, and consumer product brands. This multiyear campaign aims to raise awareness among both consumers and healthcare providers about the benefits of LDA in reducing the risks associated with preeclampsia.
The campaign will feature TV PSAs, digital ads, and educational resources targeted at healthcare professionals like OB-GYNs, midwives, and pharmacists. Brand ambassador Allyson Felix, an Olympic track and field medalist, will share her personal experience with preeclampsia and the positive impact of LDA on her second pregnancy.
While the national campaign will focus on states with high birth rates, such as California, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, and Texas, it will also offer educational resources, online events, and toolkits for partners to access and share information about preeclampsia and LDA.
March of Dimes has partnered with the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine to further promote the ‘Low Dose, Big Benefits’ initiative among clinicians and researchers. Through these efforts, March of Dimes aims to improve awareness and access to LDA as a preventive measure against preeclampsia.
