Date of Award

5-2026

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Honors Thesis

Department

Biology

First Advisor

Oscar Beltran

Second Advisor

Chad Knoderer

Third Advisor

Dania Presteguin

Abstract

Background: Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a leading cause of maternal sepsis and neonatal mortality globally. Variability in screening and treatment guidelines influences global disease burden.

Objective: This study uses a cross-national analysis to compare screening and treatment guidelines and their impact on prevalence, screening, intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis (IAP), and maternal-neonatal clinical manifestations Methodology: A systematic review of secondary literature was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and CINAHL (2010-2025). Inclusion criteria include maternal GBS colonization and one or more measures of interventions and neonatal infection rates. No geographic or demographic restrictions were applied. A total of 67 studies were screened, and 17 meta-analyses and systematic reviews were selected.

Results: In the US, CDC-recommended universal screening and IAP management is associated with low maternal prevalence and low early-onset disease (EoD) incidence (0.2/1000). However, risk-based protocols in the United Kingdom (0.48/1000) and Greece (0.7/1000) experience higher EoD incidence. Meanwhile, most low-income regions like Africa lack standardized protocols and experience higher EoD incidence (0.71/1000) and fatality rates (27%).

Conclusion: While risk-based protocols are effective, universal screening is associated with more equitable neonatal outcomes and lower disease burden. In addition, higher disease burden and low coverage rates persist in low-income areas with limited or absent national guidelines. Overall, strengthening standard guidelines and addressing disparities in underrepresented populations may improve healthcare for mothers and infants.

Additional Files
PresteguinDY_SUP_2026.pdf (82 kB)
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