Last data update: Nov 04, 2024. (Total: 48056 publications since 2009)
Records 1-27 (of 27 Records) |
Query Trace: Conrey E[original query] |
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Endemic coronavirus infections are associated with strong homotypic immunity in a US cohort of children from birth to 4 years
Morrow AL , Payne DC , Conrey SC , McMorrow M , McNeal MM , Niu L , Burrell AR , Schlaudecker EP , Mattison C , Burke RM , DeFranco E , Teoh Z , Wrammert J , Atherton LJ , Thornburg NJ , Staat MA . J Pediatric Infect Dis Soc 2024 BACKGROUND: The endemic coronaviruses OC43, HKU1, NL63 and 229E cause cold-like symptoms and are related to SARS-CoV-2, but their natural histories are poorly understood. In a cohort of children followed from birth to 4 years, we documented all coronavirus infections, including SARS-CoV-2, to understand protection against subsequent infections with the same virus (homotypic immunity) or a different coronavirus (heterotypic immunity). METHODS: Mother-child pairs were enrolled in metropolitan Cincinnati during the third trimester of pregnancy in 2017-18. Mothers reported their child's socio-demographics, risk factors, and weekly symptoms. Mid-turbinate nasal swabs were collected weekly. Blood was collected at 6 weeks, 6, 12, 18, 24 months and annually thereafter. Infections were detected by testing nasal swabs by an RT-PCR multi-pathogen panel and by serum IgG responses. Health care visits were documented from pediatric records. Analysis was limited to 116 children with high sample adherence. Re-consent for monitoring SARS-CoV-2 infections from June 2020 through November 2021 was obtained for 74 (64%) children. RESULTS: We detected 345 endemic coronavirus infections (1.1 infections/child-year) and 21 SARS-CoV-2 infections (0.3 infections/child-year). Endemic coronavirus and SARS-CoV-2 infections were asymptomatic or mild. Significant protective homotypic immunity occurred after a single infection with OC43 (77%) and HKU1 (84%), and after two infections with NL63 (73%). No heterotypic protection against endemic coronaviruses or SARS-CoV-2 was identified. CONCLUSIONS: Natural coronavirus infections were common and resulted in strong homotypic immunity but not heterotypic immunity against other coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-2. Endemic coronavirus and SARS-CoV-2 infections in this US cohort were typically asymptomatic or mild. |
Factors associated with prolonged respiratory virus detection from PCR of nasal specimens collected longitudinally in healthy children in a U.S. birth cohort
Teoh Z , Conrey S , McNeal M , Burrell A , Burke RM , Mattison CP , McMorrow M , Thornburg N , Payne DC , Morrow AL , Staat MA . J Pediatric Infect Dis Soc 2024 BACKGROUND: Respiratory viral shedding is incompletely characterized by existing studies due to the lack of longitudinal nasal sampling and limited inclusion of healthy/asymptomatic children. We describe characteristics associated with prolonged virus detection by PCR in a community-based birth cohort. METHODS: Children were followed from birth to 2 years of age in the PREVAIL cohort. Weekly nasal swabs were collected and tested using the Luminex Respiratory Pathogen Panel. Weekly text surveys were administered to ascertain the presence of acute respiratory illnesses defined as fever and/or cough. Maternal reports and medical chart abstractions identified healthcare utilization. Prolonged virus detection was defined as a persistently positive test lasting >4 weeks. Factors associated with prolonged virus detection were assessed using mixed effects multivariable logistic regression. RESULTS: From a sub-cohort of 101 children with >70% weekly swabs collected, a total of 1489 viral infections were detected. Prolonged virus detection was found in 23.4% of viral infections overall, 39% of bocavirus infections, 33% of rhinovirus/enterovirus infections, 14% of RSV A infections, and 7% of RSV B infections. No prolonged detection was found for influenza A or B, coronavirus 229E or HKU1, and parainfluenza 2 or 4 virus infections. First lifetime infection with each virus, and co-detection of another respiratory virus were significantly associated with prolonged detection, while symptom status, child sex, and child age were not. CONCLUSIONS: Prolonged virus detection was observed in 1 in 4 viral infections in this cohort of healthy children and varied by pathogen, occurring most often for bocavirus and rhinovirus/enterovirus. Evaluating the immunological basis of how viral co-detections and recurrent viral infections impact duration of virus detection by PCR is needed to better understand the dynamics of prolonged viral shedding. |
Correlates of rotavirus vaccine shedding and seroconversion in a U.S. cohort of healthy infants
Burke RM , Payne DC , McNeal M , Conrey SC , Burrell AR , Mattison CP , Casey-Moore MC , Mijatovic-Rustempasic S , Gautam R , Esona MD , Thorman AW , Bowen MD , Parashar UD , Tate JE , Morrow AL , Staat MA . J Infect Dis 2024 BACKGROUND: Rotavirus is a leading cause of severe pediatric gastroenteritis; two highly effective vaccines are used in the US. We aimed to identify correlates of immune response to rotavirus vaccination in a US cohort. METHODS: PREVAIL is a birth cohort of 245 mother-child pairs enrolled 2017-2018 and followed for 2 years. Infant stool samples and symptom information were collected weekly. Shedding was defined as RT-PCR detection of rotavirus vaccine virus in stools collected 4-28 days after dose one. Seroconversion was defined as a threefold rise in IgA between the six-week and six-month blood draws. Correlates were analyzed using generalized estimating equations and logistic regression. RESULTS: Pre-vaccination IgG (OR=0.84, 95% CI [0.75-0.94] per 100-unit increase) was negatively associated with shedding. Shedding was also less likely among infants with a single-nucleotide polymorphism inactivating FUT2 antigen secretion ("non-secretors") with non-secretor mothers, versus all other combinations (OR 0.37 [0.16-0.83]). Of 141 infants with data, 105 (74%) seroconverted; 78 (77%) had shed vaccine virus following dose one. Pre-vaccination IgG and secretor status were significantly associated with seroconversion. Neither shedding nor seroconversion significantly differed by vaccine product. DISCUSSION: In this US cohort, pre-vaccination IgG and maternal and infant secretor status were associated with rotavirus vaccine response. |
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Harvard program evaluation practicum: 10 years of partnership in public health program evaluation
Ramsey LM , Thompson HL , Conrey E , Fuller TR , Brown MJ , Tiemeier H , Arellano D , Davis D , Okoroh E . J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2023 32 (11) 1150-1157 The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)'s Division of Reproductive Health and Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health (HSPH) Program Evaluation Practicum (CDC/HSPH Practicum) is a mutually beneficial workforce development partnership formed to provide state, local, and tribal public health organizations with an evaluation plan for a maternal and child health (MCH) program. State, local, and tribal public health organizations submit an MCH program in need of evaluation for inclusion consideration. Student pairs are matched with the selected programs in a 3-week practical field-based experience. This Practicum provides didactic training for both program staff and students followed by field work at the public health organizations. Students provide organizations with comprehensive evaluation plans, complete with logic model, methodology, and indicators. Since the Practicum's inception in 2013, 104 HSPH graduate students have been trained and 30 states and 1 territory have participated and received evaluation plans for their MCH programs. The utility and importance of the CDC/HSPH Practicum is evidenced by program staff and student feedback. Multiple states have implemented the plans designed by the students, with some evaluations leading to program enhancements. The CDC/HSPH Practicum prepares students for the workforce and adds much needed capacity to public health organizations by providing them with evaluation knowledge and skills, and usable evaluation plans to improve MCH-a win-win for all. |
Burden of respiratory viruses in children less than two years in a community-based longitudinal U.S. birth cohort
Teoh Z , Conrey S , McNeal M , Burrell A , Burke RM , Mattison C , McMorrow M , Payne DC , Morrow AL , Staat MA . Clin Infect Dis 2023 77 (6) 901-909 BACKGROUND: Respiratory viral infections are a major cause of morbidity and hospitalization in young children. Nevertheless, the population burden of respiratory viral infections, especially asymptomatic cases, is not known due to the lack of prospective community-based cohort studies with intensive monitoring. METHODS: To address this gap, we enacted the PREVAIL cohort, a CDC-sponsored birth cohort in Cincinnati, Ohio where children were followed from birth to 2 years of age. Weekly text surveys were administered to mothers to record acute respiratory illnesses (ARIs), which were defined as the presence of cough or fever (≥38oC). Weekly mid-turbinate nasal swabs were collected and tested using the Luminex Respiratory Pathogen Panel, which detected 16 viral pathogens. Viral infection was defined as one or more positive tests from the same virus or viral subtype within 30 days of previous positive. Maternal report and medical chart abstractions identified health care utilization. RESULTS: From 4/2017 to 7/2020, 245 mother-infant pairs were recruited and followed. From the 13,781 nasal swabs tested, a total of 2,211 viral infections were detected, of which, 821 (37%) were symptomatic. Children experienced 9.4 respiratory viral infections/child-year; half were rhinovirus/enterovirus. Viral ARI incidence was 3.3 episodes/child-year. Emergency department visits or hospitalization occurred with only 15% of respiratory syncytial virus infections, 10% of influenza infections, and only 4% of all viral infections. Regardless of pathogen, most infections were asymptomatic or mild. CONCLUSIONS: Respiratory viral infections are common in children 0-2 years. Most viral infections are asymptomatic or non-medically attended, underscoring the importance of community-based cohort studies. |
Gut Microbiome Composition and Metabolic Capacity Differ by FUT2 Secretor Status in Exclusively Breastfed Infants.
Thorman AW , Adkins G , Conrey SC , Burrell AR , Yu Y , White B , Burke R , Haslam D , Payne DC , Staat MA , Morrow AL , Newburg DS . Nutrients 2023 15 (2) A major polymorphism in the fucosyltransferase2 (FUT2) gene influences risk of multiple gut diseases, but its impact on the microbiome of breastfed infants was unknown. In individuals with an active FUT2 enzyme ("secretors"), the intestinal mucosa is abundantly fucosylated, providing mutualist bacteria with a rich endogenous source of fucose. Non-secretors comprise approximately one-fifth of the population, and they lack the ability to create this enzyme. Similarly, maternal secretor status influences the abundance of a breastfeeding mother's fucosylated milk oligosaccharides. We compared the impact of maternal secretor status, measured by FUT2 genotype, and infant secretor status, measured by FUT2 genotype and phenotype, on early infant fecal microbiome samples collected from 2-month-old exclusively breastfed infants (n = 59). Infant secretor status (19% non-secretor, 25% low-secretor, and 56% full-secretor) was more strongly associated with the infant microbiome than it was with the maternal FUT2 genotype. Alpha diversity was greater in the full-secretors than in the low- or non-secretor infants (p = 0.049). Three distinct microbial enterotypes corresponded to infant secretor phenotype (p = 0.022) and to the dominance of Bifidobacterium breve, B. longum, or neither (p < 0.001). Infant secretor status was also associated with microbial metabolic capacity, specifically, bioenergetics pathways. We concluded that in exclusively breastfed infants, infant-but not maternal-secretor status is associated with infant microbial colonization and metabolic capacity. |
Neighbourhood socio-economic environment predicts adiposity and obesity risk in children under two
Conrey SC , Burrell AR , Brokamp C , Burke RM , Couch SC , Niu L , Mattison CP , Piasecki A , Payne DC , Staat MA , Morrow AL . Pediatr Obes 2022 17 (12) e12964 Background: Neighbourhood socio-economic environment (SEE) is associated with obesity in older children and adults, but little is known about this relationship in younger children. Breastfeeding is an important preventative of adiposity in childhood, but its relationship with neighbourhood SEE is unknown. Aims: We assessed differences in adiposity and obesity in children before age two by neighbourhood SEE, controlling for family socio-demographics and breastfeeding duration. Materials and Methods: Family socio-demographics, child body mass index z scores (BMIz), and breastfeeding duration were collected at periodic study visits from participants in PREVAIL (n = 245), a birth cohort in Cincinnati, OH. Addresses were assigned a Deprivation Index score, a validated measure of SEE, and dichotomized into highest SEE (least deprived quartile of scores) and not highest SEE (remaining quartiles). Longitudinal and Poisson models assessed differences in BMIz by SEE over the second year of life and obesity risk at age two, respectively (highest SEE, reference), while attenuation of obesity risk by breastfeeding duration was tested in mediation models. Results: Residing outside of the highest SEE neighbourhoods was associated with an increased BMIz of 0.04 (95%CI 0.02, 0.06) per month of life and increased obesity risk at age two (aRR: 3.7, 95%CI 1.2, 16.2), controlling for family socio-demographics. Breastfeeding duration attenuated >9% of the obesity risk attributable to SEE (mediated RR: 3.4, 95%CI 1.1, 14.8). Discussion: In the PREVAIL Cohort, residing outside of the highest SEE neighbourhoods predicted a significant increase in BMIz and obesity risk in children before age two, a relationship that was partially mediated by breastfeeding duration. Conclusion: Breastfeeding support may play an important role in reducing obesity rates in children in lower SEE neighbourhoods. © 2022 The Authors. Pediatric Obesity published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of World Obesity Federation. |
Breastfeeding Disparities and Their Mediators in an Urban Birth Cohort of Black and White Mothers
Morrow AL , McClain J , Conrey SC , Niu L , Kinzer A , Cline AR , Piasecki AM , DeFranco E , Ward L , Ware J , Payne DC , Staat MA , Nommsen-Rivers LA . Breastfeed Med 2021 16 (6) 452-462 Background: Black mothers in the United States have shorter breastfeeding (BF) durations and less exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) than others. The factors underlying these disparities require investigation. Methods: Using longitudinal data from a CDC-sponsored birth cohort in Cincinnati, Ohio, we analyzed the factors mediating racial disparity in BF outcomes. Study mothers were enrolled in prenatal clinics associated with two large birth hospitals. Analysis was restricted to racial groups with sufficient numbers in the cohort, non-Hispanic Black (n = 92) and White (n = 113) mothers, followed to at least 6 months postpartum. Results: Black mothers were 25 times more likely to reside in socioeconomically deprived neighborhoods and 20 times more likely to have an annual household income <$50,000/year than White mothers (p < 0.001). The gap in EBF for 6 weeks was 45 percentage points by racial group (13%-Black mothers versus 58%-White mothers, p < 0.001); in any BF at 6 months was 37 percentage points (28%-Black mothers versus 65%-White mothers, p < 0.001); and in mothers meeting their own intention to BF at least 6 months was 51 percentage points (29%-Black mothers versus 80%-White mothers, p < 0.001). Racial disparity in EBF at 6 weeks was mediated in logistic regression models by inequities in socioeconomic position, maternal hypertension, and BF intention. Racial disparities in BF at 6 months or meeting 6-month BF intention were mediated by inequities in socioeconomic position, maternal obesity, and EBF at 6 weeks. Not all BF disparities could be explained by models used in these analyses. Conclusions: Efforts to lessen BF disparities should address the underlying structural inequities that disproportionately affect Black mothers and children, should incorporate maternal health, and focus on breastfeeding exclusivity and duration. Few Black mothers achieved EBF at 6 weeks, which contributed to disparity in BF duration. Greater attention to Black mother-infant pairs is a public health priority. |
Pediatric Respiratory and Enteric Virus Acquisition and Immunogenesis in US Mothers and Children Aged 0-2: PREVAIL Cohort Study.
Morrow AL , Staat MA , DeFranco EA , McNeal MM , Cline AR , Conrey SC , Schlaudecker EP , Piasecki AM , Burke RM , Niu L , Hall AJ , Bowen MD , Gerber SI , Langley GE , Thornburg NJ , Campbell AP , Vinjé J , Parashar UD , Payne DC . JMIR Res Protoc 2021 10 (2) e22222 BACKGROUND: Acute gastroenteritis (AGE) and acute respiratory infections (ARIs) cause significant pediatric morbidity and mortality. Developing childhood vaccines against major enteric and respiratory pathogens should be guided by the natural history of infection and acquired immunity. The United States currently lacks contemporary birth cohort data to guide vaccine development. OBJECTIVE: The PREVAIL (Pediatric Respiratory and Enteric Virus Acquisition and Immunogenesis Longitudinal) Cohort study was undertaken to define the natural history of infection and immune response to major pathogens causing AGE and ARI in US children. METHODS: Mothers in Cincinnati, Ohio, were enrolled in their third trimester of pregnancy, with intensive child follow-up to 2 years. Blood samples were obtained from children at birth (cord), 6 weeks, and 6, 12, 18, and 24 months. Whole stool specimens and midturbinate nasal swabs were collected weekly and tested by multipathogen molecular assays. Saliva, meconium, maternal blood, and milk samples were also collected. AGE (≥3 loose or watery stools or ≥1 vomiting episode within 24 hours) and ARI (cough or fever) cases were documented by weekly cell phone surveys to mothers via automated SMS text messaging and review of medical records. Immunization records were obtained from registries and providers. follow-up ended in October 2020. Pathogen-specific infections are defined by a PCR-positive sample or rise in serum antibody. RESULTS: Of the 245 enrolled mother-child pairs, 51.8% (n=127) were White, 43.3% (n=106) Black, 55.9% (n=137) publicly insured, and 86.5% (n=212) initiated breastfeeding. Blood collection was 100.0% for mothers (n=245) and 85.7% for umbilical cord (n=210). A total of 194/245 (79.2%) mother-child pairs were compliant based on participation in at least 70% (≥71/102 study weeks) of child-weeks and providing 70% or more of weekly samples during that time, or blood samples at 18 or 24 months. Compliant participants (n=194) had 71.0% median nasal swab collection (IQR 30.0%-90.5%), with 98.5% (191/194) providing either an 18- or 24-month blood sample; median response to weekly SMS text message surveys was 95.1% (IQR 76.5%-100%). Compliant mothers reported 2.0 AGE and 4.5 ARI cases per child-year, of which 25.5% (160/627) and 38.06% (486/1277) of cases, respectively, were medically attended; 0.5% of AGE (3/627) and 0.55% of ARI (7/1277) cases were hospitalized. CONCLUSIONS: The PREVAIL Cohort demonstrates intensive follow-up to document the natural history of enteric and respiratory infections and immunity in children 0-2 years of age in the United States and will contribute unique data to guide vaccine recommendations. Testing for pathogens and antibodies is ongoing. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID): RR1-10.2196/22222. |
Maternal transport: an opportunity to improve the system of risk-appropriate care
DeSisto CL , Oza-Frank R , Goodman D , Conrey E , Shellhaas C . J Perinatol 2021 41 (9) 2141-2146 OBJECTIVE: To assess how often maternal transport preceded pregnancy-related deaths and describe contributing factors and recommendations related to maternal transport. STUDY DESIGN: We used Ohio maternal mortality review committee (MMRC) data from 2010 to 2016. We defined two transport types among pregnancy-related deaths: field to hospital and hospital to hospital. We examined deaths determined by the MMRC to be potentially preventable by transfer to a higher level of care and described contributing factors and recommendations. RESULT: Among 136 pregnancy-related deaths, 56 (41.2%) were transported. Among 15 deaths identified as potentially preventable by transfer to a higher level of care, 5 were transported between hospitals. Contributing factors for 14 deaths included inadequate response by Emergency Medical Services and lack of transport to a higher level of care. CONCLUSION: Our results suggest opportunities for examining modification and adherence to existing protocols. Improving risk-appropriate maternal care systems is important for preventing pregnancy-related deaths. |
Perceived barriers to type 2 diabetes prevention for low-income women with a history of gestational diabetes: A qualitative secondary data analysis
Ingol TT , Kue J , Conrey EJ , Oza-Frank R , Weber MB , Bower JK . Diabetes Educ 2020 46 (3) 271-278 PURPOSE: The purpose of this qualitative study was to examine perceived barriers to adoption of lifestyle changes for type 2 diabetes prevention among a diverse group of low-income women with a history of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). METHODS: A secondary data analysis of 10 semistructured focus group discussions was conducted. Participants were low-income African American, Hispanic, and Appalachian women ages 18 to 45 years who were diagnosed with GDM in the past 10 years. A qualitative content analysis was conducted to identify key themes that emerged within and between groups. RESULTS: Four key themes emerged on the role of knowledge, affordability, accessibility, and social support in type 2 diabetes prevention. Women discussed a lack of awareness of the benefits of breastfeeding and type 2 diabetes prevention, inaccessibility of resources in their local communities to help them engage in lifestyle change, and the desire for more culturally relevant education on healthful food options and proper portion sizes. DISCUSSION: Study findings suggests that to improve effectiveness of type 2 diabetes prevention efforts among low-income women with GDM history, health care providers and public health practitioners should avoid using "one-size-fits-all" approaches to lifestyle change and instead use tailored interventions that address the cultural and environmental factors that impact women's ability to engage in recommended behavior change. |
Estimating the burden of prematurity on infant mortality: A comparison of death certificates and child fatality review in Ohio, 2009-2013
Montgomery M , Conrey E , Okoroh E , Kroelinger C . Matern Child Health J 2019 24 (2) 135-143 Introduction Infant mortality is a key population health indicator, and accurate cause of death reporting is necessary to design infant mortality prevention strategies. Death certificates and child fatality review (CFR) both track leading infant causes of death in Ohio but produce different results. Our aim was to determine the frequency and characteristics of differences between the two systems to understand both cause of death ranking systems for Ohio. Methods We linked and analyzed data from death certificates and CFR records for all infant deaths (aged < 1 year) in Ohio during 2009-2013. Death certificate and CFR cause of death assignments were compared. Kappa statistic was used to measure concordance. Death certificate-CFR cause of death pairs were plotted to identify common concordant and discordant pairs. Results A total of 5030 infant deaths with death certificate and CFR records were analyzed. The most common discordant cause of death pair was other perinatal condition on the death certificate and prematurity by CFR (1119). Specific injury categories had higher concordance (kappa 0.71-1.00) than medical categories (kappa 0.00-0.78). Among 456 deaths categorized as sudden infant death syndrome on death certificates, approximately 50% (230) were categorized as missing, unknown, or undetermined by CFR. Discussion Linking death certificate and CFR causes of death provided a more robust understanding of infant causes of death in Ohio. Separately, each system serves distinct and valuable purposes that should be reviewed before selecting one system for ranking leading causes of infant mortality. |
A quality improvement collaborative increased preventive education and screening rates for women at high-risk for type 2 diabetes mellitus in primary care settings
Lorenz A , Oza-Frank R , May S , Conrey EJ , Panchal B , Brill SB , RajanBabu A , Howard K . Prim Care Diabetes 2019 14 (4) 335-342 AIMS: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) rates continue to increase across women of reproductive age in the United States. The Ohio Type 2 Diabetes Learning Collaborative aimed to improve education and screening for T2DM among women aged 18-44years at high risk for developing T2DM. METHODS: Fifteen primary care practices across Ohio participated in a 12-month quality improvement (QI) collaborative, which included monthly calls to share best practices, one-on-one QI coaching, and Plan-Do-Study-Act cycles. Monthly, practices submitted data on three outcome measures on preventive education and three measures on clinical screening for T2DM. RESULTS: Increases across each of the three preventive education rates (range of percent increase: 53.6% - 60.0%) and each of the three screening rates for T2DM (15.0% - 19.4%) were observed. Specifically, screening rates for high-risk women with two or more risk factors for T2DM (excluding gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM)) increased by 16.8% (60.5%-77.3%) while rates for T2DM among women with a history of GDM increased by 15.0% (75.0 - 90.0). CONCLUSIONS: A quality improvement collaborative increased preventive education and screening rates for women at high-risk for T2DM in primary care settings. |
Pregnant Validity of the pregnancy checkbox on death certificates in four states, and characteristics associated with pregnancy checkbox errors
Catalano A , Davis NL , Petersen EE , Harrison C , Kieltyka L , You M , Conrey EJ , Ewing AC , Callaghan WM , Goodman D . Am J Obstet Gynecol 2019 222 (3) 269 e1-269 e8 BACKGROUND: Maternal mortality rates in the United States appear to be increasing. One potential reason may be increased identification of maternal deaths after the addition of a pregnancy checkbox to the death certificate. In 2016, four state health departments (Georgia, Louisiana, Michigan, Ohio) implemented a pregnancy checkbox quality assurance pilot, with technical assistance provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The pilot aimed to improve accuracy of the pregnancy checkbox on death certificates and resultant state maternal mortality estimates. OBJECTIVE(S): To estimate the validity of the pregnancy checkbox on the death certificate and describe characteristics associated with errors using 2016 data from a four state quality assurance pilot. STUDY DESIGN: Potential pregnancy-associated deaths were identified by linking death certificates with birth or fetal death certificates from within a year preceding death or by pregnancy checkbox status. Death certificates which indicated the decedent was pregnant within a year of death via the pregnancy checkbox, but that did not link to a birth or fetal death certificate, were referred for active follow-up to confirm pregnancy status by either death certifier confirmation or medical record review. Descriptive statistics and 95% confidence intervals were used to examine the distributions of demographic characteristics by pregnancy confirmation category (i.e., confirmed pregnant, confirmed not pregnant, and unable to confirm). We compared the proportion confirmed pregnant and confirmed not pregnant within age, race/ethnicity, pregnancy checkbox category, and certifier type categories using a Wald test of proportions. Binomial and Poisson regression models were used to estimate prevalence ratios for having an incorrect pregnancy checkbox (false positive, false negative) by age group, race/ethnicity, pregnancy checkbox category, and certifier type. RESULTS: Among 467 potential pregnancy-associated deaths, 335 (72%) were confirmed pregnant either via linkage to a birth or fetal death certificate, certifier confirmation, or review of medical records. Ninety-seven (21%) women were confirmed not pregnant (false positives) and 35 (7%) were unable to be confirmed. Women confirmed pregnant were significantly younger than women confirmed not pregnant (p<.001). Deaths certified by coroners and medical examiners were more likely to be confirmed pregnant than confirmed not pregnant (p=0.04). The association between decedent age category and false positive status followed a dose-response relationship (p<0.001), with increasing prevalence ratios for each increase in age category. Death certificates of non-Hispanic black women were more likely to be false positives, compared with non-Hispanic white women [prevalence ratio (PR) 1.41, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.01, 1.96]. The sensitivity of the pregnancy checkbox among these four states in 2016 was 62% and the positive predictive value was 68%. CONCLUSION(S): We provide a multi-state analysis of the validity of the pregnancy checkbox and highlight a need for more accurate reporting of pregnancy status on death certificates. States and other jurisdictions may increase the accuracy of their data used to calculate maternal mortality rates by implementing quality assurance processes. |
Severe maternal morbidity, a tale of 2 states using Data for Action - Ohio and Massachusetts
Conrey EJ , Manning SE , Shellhaas C , Somerville NJ , Stone SL , Diop H , Rankin K , Goodman D . Matern Child Health J 2019 23 (8) 989-995 Purpose Describe how Ohio and Massachusetts explored severe maternal morbidity (SMM) data, and used these data for increasing awareness and driving practice changes to reduce maternal morbidity and mortality. Description For 2008-2013, Ohio used de-identified hospital discharge records and International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-9-CM) codes to identify delivery hospitalizations. Massachusetts used existing linked data system infrastructure to identify delivery hospitalizations from birth certificates linked to hospital discharge records. To identify delivery hospitalizations complicated by one or more of 25 SMMs, both states applied an algorithm of ICD-9-CM diagnosis and procedure codes. Ohio calculated a 2013 SMM rate of 144 per 10,000 delivery hospitalizations; Massachusetts calculated a rate of 162. Ohio observed no increase in the SMM rate from 2008 to 2013; Massachusetts observed a 33% increase. Both identified disparities in SMM rates by maternal race, age, and insurance type. Assessment Ohio and Massachusetts engaged stakeholders, including perinatal quality collaboratives and maternal mortality review committees, to share results and raise awareness about the SMM rates and identified high-risk populations. Both states are applying findings to inform strategies for improving perinatal outcomes, such as simulation training for obstetrical emergencies, licensure rules for maternity units, and a focus on health equity. Conclusion Despite data access differences, examination of SMM data informed public health practice in both states. Ohio and Massachusetts maximized available state data for SMM investigation, which other states might similarly use to understand trends, identify high risk populations, and suggest clinical or population level interventions to improve maternal morbidity and mortality. |
Prevalence and changes in preexisting diabetes and gestational diabetes among women who had a live birth - United States, 2012-2016
Deputy NP , Kim SY , Conrey EJ , Bullard KM . MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2018 67 (43) 1201-1207 Diabetes during pregnancy increases the risk for adverse maternal and infant health outcomes. Type 1 or type 2 diabetes diagnosed before pregnancy (preexisting diabetes) increases infants' risk for congenital anomalies, stillbirth, and being large for gestational age (1). Diabetes that develops and is diagnosed during the second half of pregnancy (gestational diabetes) increases infants' risk for being large for gestational age (1) and might increase the risk for childhood obesity (2); for mothers, gestational diabetes increases the risk for future type 2 diabetes (3). In the United States, prevalence of both preexisting and gestational diabetes increased from 2000 to 2010 (4,5). Recent state-specific trends have not been reported; therefore, CDC analyzed 2012-2016 National Vital Statistics System (NVSS) birth data. In 2016, the crude national prevalence of preexisting diabetes among women with live births was 0.9%, and prevalence of gestational diabetes was 6.0%. Among 40 jurisdictions with continuously available data from 2012 through 2016, the age- and race/ethnicity-standardized prevalence of preexisting diabetes was stable at 0.8% and increased slightly from 5.2% to 5.6% for gestational diabetes. Preconception care and lifestyle interventions before, during, and after pregnancy might provide opportunities to control, prevent, or mitigate health risks associated with diabetes during pregnancy. |
Association between pediatric asthma care quality and morbidity and English language proficiency in Ohio
Montgomery MP , Allen ED , Thomas O , Robinson BF , Clark D , Connelly A , Mott JA , Conrey E . J Asthma 2018 56 (6) 1-24 OBJECTIVE: Limited English proficiency can be a barrier to asthma care and is associated with poor outcomes. This study examines whether pediatric patients in Ohio with limited English proficiency experience lower asthma care quality or higher morbidity. METHODS: We used electronic health records for asthma patients aged 2-17 years from a regional, urban, children's hospital in Ohio during 2011-2015. Community-level demographics were included from U.S. Census data. By using chi-square and t-tests, patients with limited English proficiency and bilingual English-speaking patients were compared with English-only patients. Five asthma outcomes-two quality and three morbidity measures-were modeled using generalized estimating equations with a logit link function. RESULTS: The study included 15 352 (84%) English-only patients, 1744 (10%) patients with limited English proficiency, and 1147 (6%) bilingual patients. Recommended pulmonary function testing (quality measure) and multiple exacerbation visits (morbidity measure) did not differ by language group. Compared with English-only patients, bilingual patients had higher odds of ever having an exacerbation visit (morbidity measure) (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.4; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.2-1.6) but lower odds of admission to intensive care (morbidity measure) (aOR, 0.3; 95% CI, 0.2-0.7), while patients with limited English proficiency did not differ on either factor. Recommended follow-up after exacerbation (quality measure) was higher for limited English proficiency (aOR, 1.8; 95% CI, 1.4-2.3) and bilingual patients (aOR, 1.6; 95% CI, 1.3-2.1), compared with English-only patients. CONCLUSIONS: In this urban, pediatric population with reliable interpreter services, limited English proficiency was not associated with worse asthma care quality or morbidity. |
Healthcare experiences of low-income women with prior gestational diabetes
Oza-Frank R , Conrey E , Bouchard J , Shellhaas C , Weber MB . Matern Child Health J 2018 22 (7) 1059-1066 Introduction An important yet understudied component of postpartum type 2 diabetes risk reduction among high risk women is experiences with the healthcare system. Our objective was to describe the healthcare experiences of a diverse, low-income sample of women with prior GDM, including their suggestions for improving care. Methods Focus groups were conducted among African American, Hispanic, and Appalachian women who were diagnosed with GDM within the past 10 years. Participants were recruited from community and medical resources. Twelve focus groups were conducted, four within each race-ethnic group. Results Three broad themes were identified around barriers to GDM care, management, and follow-up: (1) communication issues; (2) personal and environmental barriers; and (3) type and quality of healthcare. Many women felt communication with their provider could be improved, including more education on the severity of GDM, streamlining information to be less overwhelming, and providing additional support through referrals to community resources. Although women expressed interest in receiving more actionable advice for managing GDM during pregnancy and for preventing type 2 diabetes postpartum, few women reported changing behaviors. Barriers to behavior change were related to cost, transportation, and competing demands. Several opportunities for improved care were elucidated. Discussion Our findings suggest that across all racial and ethnic representations in our sample, low-income women with GDM experience similar communication, personal, and environmental barriers related to the healthcare they receive for their GDM. Considering the increased exposure to the health care system during a GDM-affected pregnancy, there are opportunities to address barriers among women with GDM across different race-ethnic groups. |
Evaluation of a federally funded mass media campaign and smoking cessation in pregnant women: a population-based study in three states
England L , Tong VT , Rockhill K , Hsia J , McAfee T , Patel D , Rupp K , Conrey EJ , Valdivieso C , Davis KC . BMJ Open 2017 7 (12) e016826 OBJECTIVES: In 2012, theCenters for Disease Control and Prevention initiated a national anti-smoking campaign, Tips from Former Smokers (Tips). As a result of the campaign, quit attempts among smokers increased in the general population by 3.7 percentage points. In the current study, we assessed the effects of Tips on smoking cessation in pregnant women. METHODS: We used 2009-2013 certificates of live births in three US states: Indiana, Kentucky and Ohio. Smoking cessation by the third trimester of pregnancy was examined among women who smoked in the 3 months prepregnancy. Campaign exposure was defined as overlap between the airing of Tips 2012 (March 19-June 10) and the prepregnancy and pregnancy periods. Women who delivered before Tips 2012 were not exposed. Adjusted logistic regression was used to determine whether exposure to Tips was independently associated with smoking cessation. RESULTS: Cessation rates were stable during 2009-2011 but increased at the time Tips 2012 aired and remained elevated. Overall, 32.9% of unexposed and 34.7% of exposed smokers quit by the third trimester (p<0.001). Exposure to Tips 2012 was associated with increased cessation (adjusted OR: 1.07, 95% CI 1.05 to 1.10). CONCLUSIONS: Exposure to a national anti-smoking campaign for a general audience was associated with smoking cessation in pregnant women. |
The Ohio Gestational Diabetes Postpartum Care Learning Collaborative: Development of a quality improvement initiative to improve systems of care for women
Shellhaas C , Conrey E , Crane D , Lorenz A , Wapner A , Oza-Frank R , Bouchard J . Matern Child Health J 2016 20 71-80 Objectives To improve clinical practice and increase postpartum visit Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) screening rates in women with a history of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Methods We recruited clinical sites with at least half of pregnant patients enrolled in Medicaid to participate in an 18-month quality improvement (QI) project. To support clinical practice changes, we developed provider and patient toolkits with educational and clinical practice resources. Clinical subject-matter experts facilitated a learning network to train sites and promote discussion and learning among sites. Sites submitted data from patient chart reviews monthly for key measures that we used to provide rapid-cycle feedback. Providers were surveyed at completion regarding toolkit usefulness and satisfaction. Results Of fifteen practices recruited, twelve remained actively engaged. We disseminated more than 70 provider and 2345 patient toolkits. Documented delivery of patient education improved for timely GDM prenatal screening, reduction of future T2DM risk, smoking cessation, and family planning. Sites reported toolkits were useful and easy to use. Of women for whom postpartum data were available, 67 % had a documented postpartum visit and 33 % had a postpartum T2DM screen. Lack of information sharing between prenatal and postpartum care providers was are barriers to provision and documentation of care. Conclusions for Practice QI and toolkit resources may improve the quality of prenatal education. However, postpartum care did not reach optimal levels. Future work should focus on strategies to support coordination of care between obstetrical and primary care providers. |
Impact of the 5As brief counseling on smoking cessation among pregnant clients of Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) clinics in Ohio
Olaiya O , Sharma AJ , Tong VT , Dee D , Quinn C , Agaku IT , Conrey EJ , Kuiper NM , Satten GA . Prev Med 2015 81 438-43 OBJECTIVES: We assessed whether smoking cessation improved among pregnant smokers who attended Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Supplemental Nutrition Program clinics trained to implement a brief smoking cessation counseling intervention, the 5As: ask, advise, assess, assist, arrange. METHODS: In Ohio, staff in 38 WIC clinics were trained to deliver the 5As from 2006 through 2010. Using 2005-2011 Pregnancy Nutrition Surveillance System data, we performed conditional logistic regression, stratified by clinic, to estimate the relationship between women's exposure to the 5As and the odds of self-reported quitting during pregnancy. Reporting bias for quitting was assessed by examining whether differences in infants' birth weight by quit status differed by clinic training status. RESULTS: Of 71,526 pregnant smokers at WIC enrollment, 23% quit. Odds of quitting were higher among women who attended a clinic after versus before clinic staff was trained (adjusted odds ratio, 1.16; 95% confidence interval, 1.04-1.29). The adjusted mean infant birth weight was, on average, 96g higher among women who reported quitting (P<0.0001), regardless of clinic training status. CONCLUSIONS: Training all Ohio WIC clinics to deliver the 5As may promote quitting among pregnant smokers, and thus is an important strategy to improve maternal and child health outcomes. |
A mixed-methods assessment of a brief smoking cessation intervention implemented in Ohio public health clinics, 2013
Agaku IT , Olaiya O , Quinn C , Tong VT , Kuiper NM , Conrey EJ , Sharma AJ , Mullen S , Dee D . Matern Child Health J 2015 19 (12) 2654-62 OBJECTIVES: In 2006, the state of Ohio initiated the implementation of a brief smoking cessation intervention (5As: Ask, Advise, Assess, Assist, and Arrange) in select public health clinics that serve low-income pregnant and post-partum women. Funds later became available to expand the program statewide by 2015. However, close to half of the clinics initially trained stopped implementation of the 5As. To help guide the proposed statewide expansion plan for implementation of the 5As, this study assessed barriers and facilitators related to 5As implementation among clinics that had ever received training. METHODS: A mixed-methods approach was used, comprising semi-structured interviews with clinic program directors (n = 21) and a survey of clinic staff members (n = 120), to assess implementation-related barriers, facilitators, training needs, and staff confidence in delivering the 5As. RESULTS: Semi-structured interviews of program directors elucidated implementation barriers including time constraints, low self-efficacy in engaging resistant clients, and paperwork-related documentation challenges. Facilitators included availability of community referral resources, and integration of cessation interventions into the clinic workflow. Program directors believed they would benefit from more hands-on training in delivering the 5As. The survey results showed that a majority of staff felt confident advising (61 %) or referring clients for tobacco dependence treatment (74 %), but fewer felt confident about discussing treatment options with clients (29 %) or providing support to clients who had relapsed (30 %). CONCLUSIONS: Time constraints and documentation issues were major barriers to implementing the 5As. Simplified documentation processes and training enhancements, coupled with systems change, may enhance delivery of evidence-based smoking cessation interventions. |
Ohio primary health care providers' practices and attitudes regarding screening women with prior gestational diabetes for type 2 diabetes mellitus - 2010
Rodgers L , Conrey EJ , Wapner A , Ko JY , Dietz PM , Oza-Frank R . Prev Chronic Dis 2014 11 E213 INTRODUCTION: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is associated with a 7-fold increased lifetime risk for developing type 2 diabetes mellitus. Early diagnosis of type 2 diabetes is crucial for preventing complications. Despite recommendations for type 2 diabetes screening every 1 to 3 years for women with previous diagnoses of GDM and all women aged 45 years or older, screening prevalence is unknown. We sought to assess Ohio primary health care providers' practices and attitudes regarding assessing GDM history and risk for progression to type 2 diabetes. METHODS: During 2010, we mailed surveys to 1,400 randomly selected Ohio family physicians and internal medicine physicians; we conducted analyses during 2011-2013. Overall responses were weighted to adjust for stratified sampling. Chi-square tests compared categorical variables. RESULTS: Overall response rate was 34% (380 eligible responses). Among all respondents, 57% reported that all new female patients in their practices are routinely asked about GDM history; 62% reported screening women aged 45 years or younger with prior GDM every 1 to 3 years for glucose intolerance; and 42% reported that screening for type 2 diabetes among women with prior GDM is a high or very high priority in their practice. CONCLUSION: Because knowing a patient's GDM history is the critical first step in the prevention of progression to type 2 diabetes for women who had GDM, suboptimal screening for both GDM history and subsequent glucose abnormalities demonstrates missed opportunities for identifying and counseling women with increased risk for type 2 diabetes. |
Comprehensive smoke-free policies: a tool for improving preconception health?
Klein EG , Liu ST , Conrey EJ . Matern Child Health J 2014 18 (1) 146-52 Lower income women are at higher risk for preconception and prenatal smoking, are less likely to spontaneously quit smoking during pregnancy, and have higher prenatal relapse rates than women in higher income groups. Policies prohibiting tobacco smoking in public places are intended to reduce exposure to secondhand smoke; additionally, since these policies promote a smoke-free norm, there have been associations between smoke-free policies and reduced smoking prevalence. Given the public health burden of smoking, particularly among women who become pregnant, our objective was to assess the impact of smoke-free policies on the odds of preconception smoking among low-income women. We estimated the odds of preconception smoking among low-income women in Ohio between 2002 and 2009 using data from repeated cross-sectional samples of women participating in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). A logistic spline regression was applied fitting a knot at the point of enforcement of the Ohio Smoke-free Workplace Act to evaluate whether this policy was associated with changes in the odds of smoking. After adjusting for individual- and environmental-level factors, the Ohio Smoke-free Workplace Act was associated with a small, but statistically significant reduction in the odds of preconception smoking in WIC participants. Comprehensive smoke-free policies prohibiting smoking in public places and workplaces may also be associated with reductions in smoking among low-income women. This type of policy or environmental change strategy may promote a tobacco-free norm and improve preconception health among a population at risk for smoking. |
Strategies associated with higher postpartum glucose tolerance screening rates for gestational diabetes mellitus patients
Ko JY , Dietz PM , Conrey EJ , Rodgers LE , Shellhaas C , Farr SL , Robbins CL . J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2013 22 (8) 681-6 BACKGROUND: Most women with histories of gestational diabetes mellitus do not receive a postpartum screening test for type 2 diabetes, even though they are at increased risk. The objective of this study was to identify factors associated with high rates of postpartum glucose screening. METHODS: This cross-sectional analysis assessed characteristics associated with postpartum diabetes screening for patients with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM)-affected pregnancies self-reported by randomly sampled licensed obstetricians/gynecologists (OBs/GYNs) in Ohio in 2010. RESULTS: Responses were received from 306 OBs/GYNs (56.5% response rate), among whom 69.9% reported frequently (always/most of the time) screening women with GDM-affected pregnancies for abnormal glucose tolerance at the postpartum visit. Compared to infrequent screeners, OBs/GYNs who frequently screen for postpartum glucose tolerance were statistically (p<0.05) more likely to have a clinical protocol addressing postpartum testing (67.2% vs. 26.7%), an electronic reminder system for providers (10.8% vs. 2.2%) and provide reminders to patients (16.4% vs. 4.4%). Frequent screeners were more likely to use recommended fasting blood glucose or 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test (61.8% vs. 34.6%, p<0.001) than infrequent screeners. CONCLUSIONS: Strategies associated with higher postpartum glucose screening for GDM patients included clinical protocols for postpartum testing, electronic medical records to alert providers of the need for testing, and reminders to patients. |
Gestational diabetes mellitus and postpartum care practices of nurse-midwives
Ko JY , Dietz PM , Conrey EJ , Rodgers L , Shellhaas C , Farr SL , Robbins CL . J Midwifery Womens Health 2013 58 (1) 33-40 INTRODUCTION: Postpartum screening for glucose intolerance among women with recent histories of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is important for identifying women with continued glucose intolerance after birth, yet screening rates are suboptimal. In a thorough review of the literature, we found no studies of screening practices among certified nurse-midwives (CNMs). The objectives of our study were to estimate the prevalence of postpartum screening for abnormal glucose tolerance and related care by CNMs for women with recent histories of GDM and to identify strategies for improvement. METHODS: From October through December 2010, the Ohio Department of Health sent a survey by mail and Internet to all licensed CNMs practicing in Ohio. We calculated prevalence estimates for knowledge, attitudes, clinical practices, and behaviors related to postpartum diabetes screening. Chi-square statistics were used to assess differences in self-reported clinical behaviors by frequency of postpartum screening. RESULTS: Of the 146 CNMs who provided postpartum care and responded to the survey (62.2% response rate), 50.4% reported screening women with GDM-affected pregnancies for abnormal glucose tolerance at the postpartum visit. Of CNMs who screened postpartum, only 48.4% used fasting blood sugar or the 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test. Although 86.2% of all responding CNMs reported that they inform women with recent histories of GDM of their increased risk for type 2 diabetes mellitus, only 63.1% counseled these women to exercise regularly and 23.3% reported referring overweight/obese women to a diet support group or other nutrition counseling. CNMs reported that identification of community resources for lifestyle interventions and additional training in postpartum screening guidelines may help to improve postpartum care. DISCUSSION: CNMs in Ohio reported suboptimal levels of postpartum diabetes testing and use of a recommended postpartum test. Providing CNMs with additional training and identifying community resources to support needed lifestyle behavior change may improve care for women with recent GDM-affected pregnancies. |
Preconception health indicators: a comparison between non-Appalachian and Appalachian women
Short VL , Oza-Frank R , Conrey EJ . Matern Child Health J 2012 16 S238-S249 To compare preconception health indicators (PCHIs) among non-pregnant women aged 18-44 years residing in Appalachian and non-Appalachian counties in 13 U.S. states. Data from the 1997-2005 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System were used to estimate the prevalence of PCHIs among women in states with C1 Appalachian county. Counties were classified as Appalachian (n = 36,496 women) or non-Appalachian (n = 88,312 women) and Appalachian counties were categorized according to economic status. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression models examined differences in PCHIs among women by (1) Appalachian residence, and (2) economic classification. Appalachian women were younger, lower income, and more often white and married compared to women in non-Appalachia. Appalachian women had significantly higher odds of reporting < high school education (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 1.19, 95 % confidence interval (CI) 1.10-1.29), fair/poor health (AOR 1.14, 95 % CI 1.06-1.22), no health insurance (AOR 1.12, 95 % CI 1.05-1.19), no annual checkup (AOR 1.12, 95 % CI 1.04-1.20), no recent Pap test (AOR 1.20, 95 % CI 1.08-1.33), smoking (AOR 1.08, 95 % CI 1.03-1.14), < 5 daily fruits/vegetables (AOR 1.11, 95 % CI 1.02-1.21), and overweight/obesity (AOR 1.05, 95 % CI 1.01-1.09). Appalachian women in counties with weaker economies had significantly higher odds of reporting less education, no health insurance, < 5 daily fruits/vegetables, overweight/obesity, and poor mental health compared to Appalachian women in counties with the strongest economies. For many PCHIs, Appalachian women did not fare as well as non-Appalachians. Interventions sensitive to Appalachian culture to improve preconception health may be warranted for this population. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2013 APA, all rights reserved) (journal abstract). |
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