#United States #New York #Preeclampsia Foundation #GAP-SPIRIN #Black Maternal Health

GAP-SPIRIN: A New Initiative for Black Maternal Health

On January 23, recognized as Maternal Health Awareness Day, the Preeclampsia Foundation, in collaboration with Patients & Purpose, rolled out an innovative program named GAP—SPIRIN. This initiative is designed to raise awareness and promote the use of low-dose aspirin among Black mothers, who are particularly susceptible to serious complications like preeclampsia during pregnancy.

Addressing a Growing Crisis

Preeclampsia is a hypertension-related disorder affecting about 5-8% of all pregnancies. Unfortunately, the condition is on the rise and poses life-threatening risks both during pregnancy and in the postpartum phase. Black women are at a significantly higher risk, being 60% more likely to develop this condition compared to their white counterparts. The tragic reality is that despite advances in healthcare, the maternal mortality gap continues to widen, primarily harming Black mothers.

In light of these alarming statistics, the GAP—SPIRIN initiative sets out to close this gap through education and advocacy. As noted by Dina Peck, Chief Creative Officer of Patients & Purpose, the campaign will focus on both healthcare providers and the expectant mothers they serve, highlighting the importance of early intervention with low-dose aspirin to potentially prevent preeclampsia.

The Launch

The program is initially being introduced in five specific zip codes in New York City identified as high-risk areas. These neighborhoods primarily serve Black populations, where healthcare disparities often impede access to essential services. In partnership with one hundred community obstetric care providers, the Preeclampsia Foundation is equipping them with educational materials and resources that outline the risks that Black mothers face and the preventive measures available.

Healthcare providers participating in the program are encouraged to reflect on their current practices and make a pledge to address these disparities actively. This initiative highlights the necessity for healthcare systems to improve the accessibility of information regarding preeclampsia and the viable options for prevention, such as low-dose aspirin.

The Reality of Barriers

Dr. Cornelia Graves, a maternal-fetal medicine specialist and a member of the Preeclampsia Foundation's Medical Advisory Board, discussed the obstacles Black women encounter when seeking healthcare. Limited access, short visit times, and concerns often disregarded by providers contribute immensely to the difficulties these women face in attaining healthy pregnancies. Educating healthcare professionals about these barriers is critical to ensuring that Black mothers receive the compassion, attention, and medical guidance they deserve.

A Call to Action

The Preeclampsia Foundation is taking a proactive stance by not just highlighting the issues but also proposing actionable solutions. As stated by Laney Poye, the Foundation's Director of Communications and Engagement, they aim to foster change by adopting a multi-tiered approach focusing on local, national, and individual actions. The primary objective is to empower Black women and ensure they are fully informed about their health and treatment options.

As 2025 unfolds, the foundation, alongside Patients & Purpose, is committed to expanding GAP—SPIRIN across the nation, delivering this life-saving preventive measure through community health workers and healthcare providers. The initiative represents a significant step towards bridging the maternal health gap and advancing health equity for Black mothers.

Learn More

For additional information about this vital initiative, visit GAP-SPIRIN.

About the Organizations

The Preeclampsia Foundation is a non-profit organization established in 2000, dedicated to improving the outcomes for women with hypertensive disorders during pregnancy by providing education, support, and advocacy. Meanwhile, Patients & Purpose is a full-service agency that strives to enhance patient communication and health advocacy.

Together, these organizations are striving to make tangible changes in maternal healthcare, particularly for those communities that need it most.