Preventing Prematurity with Xylitol in Malawi

​Principal Investigator: Dr. Benjamin Shayo

Disease: Preterm Birth

Research Description: Periodontal disease, infection and inflammation of gum tissue, occurs in up to 90% of pregnant women living in LMICs and is linked to higher rates for preterm birth (PTB) and other adverse pregnancy outcomes. PTB is a leading cause of death for children under 5 years of age around the world. In Malawi, nearly 1 out every 5 births are preterm, and up to 76% of all pregnant individuals have signs of periodontal disease. While the usual treatments of periodontal disease, such as dental scaling and planing, can improve oral health, they do not appear to significantly impact PTB. The research team previously found that Xylitol, a naturally occurring sugar substitute used in chewing gum with prebiotic and anti-inflammatory properties, is associated with both an improvement in oral health and a reduction in PTB and low birthweight. This Phase II, triple-blind, randomized, controlled trial is confirming previous findings involving Xylitol use in the second half of pregnancy, while also examining the mechanism of how Xylitol impacts the oral microbiome and inflammation in the mouth and the placenta to prevent PTB. If successful, this trial could serve as the basis of Xylitol’s effectiveness in preventing PTB and could help speed its wider adoption.

Funding Partners: Open Philanthropy

CWR Funding Role: Participating