On 11th September, the NIHR-funded King’s Global Health Research Group CRIBS showcased our maternal health work at the Science Museum Lates in London. Over 2,000 people attended, engaging and immersing themselves in critical issues affecting mothers and communities around the world.
At our “Stop the Blood Clock” station, visitors were faced with a stark fact: every six minutes, a woman dies from postpartum hemorrhage. Guests estimated blood loss from items soaked in fake blood and created uterine balloons, sparking conversations on how to better detect and prevent these tragedies, especially in low-resource settings.
The “2 Young Lives” gallery featured a Mentoring Scheme launched in 2017 in Sierra Leone, supporting young pregnant teens to not only survive but also thrive. Photos, quotes, and personal stories illustrated the challenges and resilience of these women. Early results from this research show improvements in the survival rates of both mothers and babies.
At the “Pregnancy Under Pressure” station, visitors tested their own blood pressure using our innovative CRADLE device, learning how early detection and swift action are transforming maternal healthcare in Sierra Leone. We also demonstrated point-of-care tests that move life-saving diagnostics to the bedside, where they’re needed most.
In the cinema room, our docu-dramas shared the untold stories of women in Haiti and Sierra Leone, highlighting their strength and the urgent need for better maternal care.
This event was made possible through collaboration with our global partners – Welbodi, Lifeline, the University of Zambia, the NIHR, industry partners and others. Sharing this work with the public was a privilege, and the response motivates us to keep pushing for change.
