The Global Burden
BRIDGING THE GAP
Group B Streptococcus (GBS) remains a significant global health challenge, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where access to healthcare and preventive measures is often limited. While prevention efforts such as intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis (IAP) have drastically reduced early-onset iGBS in high-income countries, these strategies are not universally accessible or effective against all forms of the disease. The continued high global burden of perinatal invasive GBS (iGBS) highlights the urgent need for comprehensive research and innovative solutions to bridge the gap in care.
THE HUMAN AND ECONOMIC TOLL OF iGBS
Each year, perinatal invasive GBS contributes to staggering global statistics, underscoring the critical need for action:
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Over 300,000 Infant Cases Annually: These include severe infections such as sepsis, pneumonia, and meningitis, which often result in long-term health consequences like neurodevelopmental impairments.
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Approximately 57,000 Newborn Deaths Annually: This translates to more than 1,000 newborn deaths per week, many of which are preventable with timely interventions.
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46,000 Stillbirths Annually: GBS infection during pregnancy can lead to devastating outcomes, including stillbirth, which profoundly affects families and communities.
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A public health concern in Developed Countries
Invasive Group B Streptococcus (iGBS) remains a critical concern in developed countries due to its significant impact on neonatal health, with risks of life-threatening infections and long-term complications like neurodevelopmental impairments.
While intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis (IAP) has reduced early-onset cases, it does not prevent late-onset disease, and reliance on antibiotics raises concerns about resistance.
The emotional, financial, and healthcare burden on families and systems underscores the need for improved prevention strategies, such as a maternal vaccine, and more equitable access to care.
Addressing iGBS is vital for advancing neonatal health, supporting families, and driving global research and innovation.
Challenges in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs)
Limited screening during pregnancy and access to intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis (IAP) and maternal screening contributes to higher rates of iGBS. These regions also face significant barriers to care for long-term complications.
Did you know...
Leading Cause of Neonatal Sepsis and Meningitis
iGBS remains one of the most common causes of life-threatening infections in newborns, even in high-resource settings.
Long-Term Complications
Survivors of iGBS are at risk of neurodevelopmental impairments (NDIs), including learning difficulties, cerebral palsy, and hearing or vision problems. These outcomes create long-term healthcare and societal challenges.
Why Research Matters
Through research, we can make advancements in:​
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Understanding Disease Pathways: Research into the mechanisms of GBS infection and progression can help identify new preventive and therapeutic targets.
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Developing Global Solutions: Innovations like maternal GBS vaccines and point-of-care diagnostic tools could provide cost-effective, scalable solutions for countries with limited healthcare infrastructure.
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Addressing Long-Term Impacts: GBS survivors often face lifelong challenges such as neurodevelopmental delays and disabilities, emphasizing the need for studies that explore long-term care and support.
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Reducing Global Health Inequities: Research that prioritizes low-resource settings can lead to equitable interventions that benefit the populations most affected by GBS.
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Selected Reading
Mortality, neurodevelopmental impairments, and economic outcomes after invasive group B streptococcal disease in early infancy in Denmark and the Netherlands: a national matched cohort study
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Horváth-Puhó, E ∙ Kassel, MNv ∙ Gonçalves, BP ∙ et al. Lancet Child Adolesc Health 2021; 5: 398–407
Neurodevelopmental and growth outcomes after invasive Group B Streptococcus in early infancy: A multi-country matched cohort study in South Africa, Mozambique, India, Kenya, and Argentina
Paul, PromaMadhi, Shabir A. et al. eClinicalMedicine 2022;47: 101358
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Group B streptococcal infections in pregnancy and early life.
Manuel G, Twentyman J, Noble K, Eastman AJ, Aronoff DM, et.al.Clin Microbiol Rev 0:e00154-22. 2024
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Our Commitment
The COMPPASS Registry is dedicated to filling the critical knowledge gaps surrounding GBS, especially gaps in our understanding of the short and long-term health outcomes of children affected by perinatal iGBS and the impact caring for children affected by iGBS has on the family.
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By collecting robust data from diverse populations worldwide, we aim to inform effective prevention, treatment, and care strategies that will reduce the burden of this disease for families everywhere. Together, we can work toward a future where no child or family has to suffer the consequences of invasive GBS.
BECOME A PARTNER
The COMPPASS Registry collaborates with a diverse range of partners, including healthcare organizations, research institutions, advocacy groups, and philanthropic foundations. Together, we work towards advancing research, promoting awareness, and providing support to families impacted by neonatal iGBS. Through these partnerships, we aim to enhance the reach and impact of our initiatives, ultimately contributing to improved outcomes and better quality of life for those affected.