Identifying research priorities for gestational weight gain in India: A national exercise

Background and objectives Gestational weight gain is an important indicator of maternal and neonatal health, yet research on this topic in the Indian context remains limited. We conducted a research-setting exercise to identify priority research questions related to gestational weight gain in the Indian context, aiming to guide researchers and policymakers. Methods We used a hybrid approach combining Child Health and Nutrition research Initiative (CHNRI) and a modified James Lind Alliance- Priority Setting Partnership (JLA-PSP). The four CHNRI steps produced an interim priority list, which was refined through the modified JLA-PSP to finalise the priorities Result Sixty researchers participated in the online survey, yielding 54 questions (response rate:30%). These were consolidated into 12 questions across three domains- ( a ) development of standards and guidelines, ( b ) Epidemiology and determinants and ( c ) Evaluation of interventions and strategies for gestational weight gain. We calculated research priority scores, and average expert agreement. The expert group determined four priority questions, emphasising gestational weight gain cut-offs related to short- and long-term feto-maternal outcomes, determinants of gestational weight gain, and effective interventions. Interpretation and conclusion These priorities provide a roadmap for researchers and funders for targeted research in the area of gestational weight gain to improve maternal and child health outcomes in India.