On 22 May 2026, the PAPAGAIO research programme joined forces with CRIBS Global and partners across continents to mark World Pre‑eclampsia Day with vibrant community‑driven initiatives. From Brazil to Zambia to India, the message was clear: early detection and awareness save lives.
Brazil
The PAPAGAIO team in Brazil carried out a series of impactful activities throughout May, culminating on World Pre‑eclampsia Day.
- At the Botucatu coordinating centre, Professor Leandro led lectures for pregnant women and community leaders, empowering them with knowledge about pre‑eclampsia.
- A donation drive collected clothing and newborn care products, distributed to expectant mothers attending the sessions.
- The innovative programme “Pre‑eclampsia – Myth or Truth” was launched, with Professor Leandro clarifying common misconceptions. Three follow‑up episodes will ensure continued community access.
- In Campinas, researchers partnered with nurses to organise a community walk, offering guidance on symptoms at a dedicated tent.
- The Ribeirão Preto centre engaged directly with pregnant women, distributing flyers with nutritional advice and vital information on pre‑eclampsia.
“Professor Leandro gave lectures throughout the day to focus these groups. A clothing and newborn care products donation drive was also organised.” 
Zambia
In Sierra Leone and Zambia, CRIBS Global’s CRADLE SMART team worked at the grassroots level.
- In Sierra Leone alone, 509 blood pressures were measured in one morning, with 13% dangerously high and 80% of pregnant women lacking antenatal care.
- These findings underscored the urgent need for community engagement approaches to reach women who might otherwise be missed.
- In Zambia, the team amplified awareness through radio survivor testimonials, panel discussions, and marches, ensuring that the voices of women affected by pre‑eclampsia were heard loud and clear.
“509 blood pressures were taken in one morning… 80% of the pregnant women had not had any antenatal care engagement.”
India
Across India, multiple centres mobilised to spread awareness:
- At PGIMER & Capital Hospital, Bhubaneswar, faculty, students, and nursing staff joined pregnant women and caregivers for a public awareness programme. Activities included expert talks, pamphlet distribution, patient interaction, and even a street play by first‑year PGs.
- In Vijayapura, Dr Jyoti Lokapur delivered a radio talk in Kannada, ensuring messages reached the wider community.
- At Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Prof M.B. Bellad led another radio awareness session, covering signs, detection methods, and the importance of timely referral, with a brief note on PLGF testing.
“Activities included expert awareness talks, pamphlet distribution, patient interaction sessions, and a street play performed by first‑year PGs.”
A Global Movement
Together, these initiatives highlight the power of partnerships, education, and innovation. Whether through lectures, radio talks, marches, or community walks, the collective efforts of CRIBS Global and Papagaio reaffirm the urgent call:
“Know Her Symptoms. Act Early. Save Lives.”
