KK Women's and Children's Hospital Maternal and Child Health Research Institute (KKH-MCHRI) is part of a pioneering study that is paving the way towards the first global system for monitoring the health of people planning to start a family.

Globally, preconception health is in the spotlight with the rising incidence of obesity and mental health challenges. More women are becoming pregnant with health conditions that can complicate pregnancy and childbirth - such as obesity, diabetes and mental illness.

The new study, published in The Lancet,  presented for the first time a set of indicators covering 12 areas (Annex A) that can be used globally to monitor the health of both men and women of reproductive age, before pregnancy. Also, for the first time, views of the general public are included in such a study, alongside views of healthcare professionals.

Across all 13 participating countries, over 5,000 participants were asked what factors would matter most to them before a pregnancy, and the responses were remarkably consistent. Mental health, physical health, supportive relationships, and finances were collectively prioritised before pregnancy.