Launch of the PAPAGAIO Research Project
The JNMC Women’s and Children’s Health Research Unit in Belagavi recently launched the “PAPAGAIO” research project—Preterm pre-eclampsia placental growth factor (PlGF) testing for reduction of adverse outcomes. This unit, a WHO Collaborating Centre for Excellence, has advanced maternal and newborn health research for over 25 years.
Professor Andrew H. Shennan, Professor of Obstetrics and Tommy’s Chair in Maternal and Fetal Health at King’s College London, attended the launch with colleagues Dr. Alice Hurrel and Dr. Louisa Samuels. Dr Prabhakar Kore, Honourable Chairman, KLE Society, presided. Following the inauguration, they conducted an investigators’ meeting to discuss the project’s implementation.
About PAPAGAIO
PAPAGAIO aims to reduce maternal and perinatal mortality and morbidity from pre-eclampsia in low- and middle-income countries. The project investigates the impact of PlGF testing on diagnosing pre-eclampsia and determining optimal timing for birth. Funded by the UK’s National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), the study is implemented in collaboration with King’s College London at several Indian medical institutions, including Karnataka Medical College Hubli, BLDE B.M. Patil Medical College Vijayapura, PGIMER Bhubaneswar, and SMS Medical College Jaipur. Additionally, Brazil, Zambia, and Sierra Leone participate in this multi-country research initiative.
The JNMC Women’s and Children’s Health Research Unit coordinates the project’s implementation across the Indian centers.
Dr. Prabhakar Kore has been instrumental in the inception and growth of the KLE J. N. Medical College Women’s and Children’s Health Research Unit. With his visionary leadership, the unit took shape to tackle key health issues affecting women and children. Over the years, through strategic planning and continued support, it has evolved into a centre for impactful research and innovation. Today, the unit plays a vital role in advancing maternal and child health, fostering national and international collaborations, and shaping healthcare outcomes through evidence-based practices.
