JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Rapid global population growth and urbanization have led to an increase in the urban populations in low- and middle-income countries. While these urban areas have generally better health outcomes than lower-income rural areas, many environmental, social, and health challenges remain. Vientiane, the capital of Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) has approximately 1.5 of the 7.5 million Laotian population (2022) and provides a unique opportunity to examine health outcomes among socioeThe aim of the Vientiane multigenerational birth cohort (VITERBI) project is to establish a multigenerational birth cohort in Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR that is representative of the local population. conomically diverse populations in a rapid urbanizing context of the country.

Objective:

The aim of the Vientiane multigenerational birth cohort (VITERBI) project is to establish a multigenerational birth cohort in Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR that is representative of the local population.

Methods:

VITERBI is a prospective multigenerational birth cohort. The study population is structured around children born between July 1, 2022, and June 30, 2023, who reside in Chanthabuly, Sikhottabong, Sangthong, or Mayparkngum districts of Vientiane. Whenever possible, children and their mothers are enrolled during pregnancy; non-reported pregnancies are enrolled after birth. The cohort plans to enroll 3’000 pregnant women and their children, the infants’ fathers, grandparents, and great-grandparents for a total study population of approximately 13’000 individuals. Participants will be followed throughout the life course with a range of data collected, including demographics, behavior, diet, physical activity, physiology, neurodevelopment, health history, quality of life, environmental exposures, depression, anxiety, stress, resilience, household characteristics, obstetric history, birth outcomes, and various living and dementia scales for elders. Biomarkers collected include height, weight blood pressure and hemoglobin levels.

Results:

As of April 2024, the study has enrolled 3’500 pregnant women and 4’579 family members. Study participation is ongoing until December 2025 at minimum with the goal to extend follow-up until 2050.

Conclusions:

The cohort will be used as a basis for further observational (cross-sectional, longitudinal) and intervention studies. It also serves as a tool to investigate social, epidemiological, and medical problems of public health importance to Lao PDR, which will contribute to a broader understanding of regional and international contexts.