CompletedObservational

Using a blood test alongside body fat measurements for obesity risk prediction to improve pregnancy outcomes

This study is using information from a previous research project called SHAPES, which looked into pregnancy complications. The main goal is to find better ways to predict who might develop problems during pregnancy, especially those linked to the amount and distribution of body fat. Currently, doctors use a measure called BMI (Body Mass Index), but research shows it's not always accurate. This study will examine existing blood samples and body fat measurements (like waist size and tummy fat scans) from the SHAPES study. By combining these different pieces of information, researchers hope to discover a more effective and accurate way to identify pregnant people who are at higher risk, so they can receive the best possible care.

At a glance

Status

Completed

Sponsor

Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

Enrolment target

900

Start

28 Apr 2022

Estimated completion

04 Apr 2024

Pregnancy outcomes

What is this study about?

This study is a bit different because it's using information that's already been collected. Researchers are looking back at data and blood samples from a previous study called SHAPES. The main aim is to find better ways to predict which pregnant people might experience health complications, especially those related to body fat.

Many people experience complications during pregnancy that are linked to how much body fat they have and where it's stored on their body. Finding out who is most likely to face these complications helps doctors plan the best care. Currently, doctors often use a measure called Body Mass Index (BMI), which looks at your height and weight. However, the SHAPES study found that BMI missed half of the pregnant people who went on to develop diabetes. This means we need a more accurate way to understand risk.

This new study will explore whether combining existing body fat measurements, like waist size or ultrasound scans of tummy fat, with information from blood tests (called biomarkers) can improve our ability to predict these pregnancy complications. By comparing different combinations, the researchers hope to find the most effective tools to identify those at higher risk, ultimately leading to better care and healthier outcomes for pregnant individuals.

Key takeaways

Uses existing data and blood samples from a past study (SHAPES).
Aims to find better ways to predict pregnancy complications than BMI.
Will combine body fat measurements with blood tests (biomarkers).
No new people are being recruited for this study.
Funded by the NIHR, a UK research body.
Results could lead to improved pregnancy care in the future.

Who may be eligible?

This study isn't looking for new participants to join. Instead, it's using information and samples that were already collected from people who took part in a previous study called SHAPES.

The original SHAPES study recruited pregnant individuals who were at least 18 years old, pregnant with one baby, and had their first scan between 11 and 14 weeks of pregnancy. They also needed to be planning to give birth locally.

People were not able to join the original SHAPES study if they had a miscarriage before their 12-week scan, or if the ultrasound showed they were pregnant with twins or more babies.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you pregnant with one baby?
Were you 18 years or older at the time of your first scan?
Did you have your first scan between 11 and 14 weeks of pregnancy?
Were you planning to give birth at a local hospital?
Did you NOT have a miscarriage before your 12-week scan?
Were you NOT pregnant with twins or more babies?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

You cannot take part in this study as it is using existing information and samples from a previous study. No new participants are being recruited.

Potential risks and benefits

This study involves no direct participation from new individuals, so there are no new risks or benefits for someone joining now. The researchers are working with existing data and blood samples from people who previously consented to their use in future research. The potential benefit of this research is that the findings could lead to better ways for doctors to predict and manage pregnancy complications in the future, ultimately improving care for pregnant individuals.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

The Newcastle upon Tyne NHS Foundation Trust
City only
Newcastle upon Tyne, England

Common questions

What is the main goal of this study?

The main goal is to find better ways to predict which pregnant people might develop health complications, especially those linked to body fat, by looking at existing data and blood samples.

Am I able to join this study?

No, this study is not recruiting new participants. It is using information and samples from people who were part of a previous study called SHAPES.

Why is BMI not good enough?

Research showed that BMI missed half of the people in the SHAPES study who developed diabetes during pregnancy, meaning a more accurate way to identify risk is needed.

What kind of information are they looking at?

They are looking at existing body fat measurements (like waist size and tummy fat scans) and chemicals in blood samples (called biomarkers) from the previous SHAPES study.

When will the study finish?

The study is expected to run until October 2026.

How to find out more

Janine Smith

hello@janine-smith.com +44 (0)191 282 0540 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.