The GROW Study

Gestational Diabetes and Related Outcomes among American Samoan Women

Overview

The GROW Study is an ongoing longitudinal, observational study of pregnant women from American Samoa, aiming to understand how genetics, environment, and behavior will impact the health of women during and after pregnancy.

Planned genomic data

• CREBRF rs373863828

Eligibility

The study includes mothers who are over 18 years old, <14 weeks pregnant, planning to give birth at LBJ Hospital in American Samoa, and intending to reside in American Samoa for at least 18 months post-birth.

Study Dates

2025 - present

Ethics

Ethical approvals are currently under review as part of the study planning.

Assessments

Trained, bilingual Samoan research assistants will conduct assessments at various time points: first second and third trimesters of pregnancy, 6 weeks, 6 months, 12 months, and 18 months pospartum. , immediately post-birth, and at 2, 4, and 6 months post-birth. Data collection will include sleep patterns, nutrition, behavior, environment, social determinants of health, physical growth measurements, and frequently sampled oral glucose tolerance testing. Biospecimens such as saliva, blood, and serum will be banked.

Team

Nicola Hawley, Angie Bengtson, and Erin Kershaw (MPIs); Bethel Muasau-Howard, Lacey Heinsberg, Jenna Carlson, Clare Flannery, Steve McGarvey (Co-Is)

Funding

• R01DK139672

Selected publications

• Carson DJ, Faasalele-Savusa K, Loia M, Tasele S, Iosefa E, Tupuola P, Sanchez KC, Kaabi O, Valencia RK, Rossillo MG, Murthy N, Akinade T, Heinsberg LW, Carlson JC, Flannery CA, McGarvey ST, Wood AN, Anesi S, Tofaeono V, Desobry K, Muasau-Howard BT, Bengtson AM, Kershaw EE, Hawley NL. Gestational diabetes-Risk factors and Outcomes among American Samoan Women (GROW): A longitudinal cohort study protocol. PLoS One. 2026 Mar 2;21(3):e0342061. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0342061. PMID: 41770725; PMCID: PMC12952650.