COHORT 1

An analysis of births for 323 pregnant women enrolled in our first cohort between 2011-2013 shows WIN Network increased the likelihood of having a full-term birth, reduced NICU admission rates, increased breastfeeding, and demonstrated evidence of reduced risk of infant mortality using a comparison group of births from the same time and geographic regions. When compared to controls, WIN Network participants were less likely to be admitted to neonatal intensive care (6% vs 10%; p=0.02) or to experience preterm birth (13% vs 17%; p=0.02). The prevalence of low birthweight was lower among WIN Network participants (9% vs 12%), but did not reach statistical significance (p=0.28). CHWs were also critical in shaping participants’ view of opportunities to thrive.

COHORT 2 (CURRENT OUTCOMES)

With our second cohort, launched April 2016, we began offering enhanced group prenatal care for African American women aged 18-45. Of the 321 births, 94% have been born full-term, compared to 85.4% of all Detroit babies in 2019. Our average gestational age is 38.5 weeks. 6% of the births were low birthweight, compared to 14.9% of all Detroit births in 2019. Our average birthweight was 6.89 pounds. 97% of our moms initiated breastfeeding.

The benefit of CHWs in helping black women overcome barriers, achieve behavior change and succeed at pursuing goals is critical in improving birth outcomes for this vulnerable group.