A blood test designed to identify women at risk of postpartum depression is currently being developed, with clinical trials planned across multiple countries. The test is not intended to diagnose the condition, but to allow families to seek support and earlier diagnosis should symptoms arise.
Postpartum Depression Risk Assessment
Dr. Yates has raised A$1.2 million (S$1,026,702) through investor funding and government-matching support to fund clinical trials involving 1,000 mothers from Singapore, Australia, India, Europe, and potentially the United States over the next year.
Following the trials, the company intends to file for regulatory approvals and seek certification for the blood test in markets including Singapore, Europe, and Australia.
Dr. Yates funded the initial study by selling her home and is currently renting. She has been traveling internationally to pitch her idea and secure funding for the next phase of development.
The test identifies biomarkers associated with risk, but approximately 9 per cent of the variance in risk is likely due to unidentified biological predictors and social factors like support and sleep.
Dr. Yates, of Eurasian and Chinese heritage, emphasized the importance of making the test available in Singapore, her hometown. “Because I come from Singapore, coming back to my hometown and being able to make a difference is important to me,” she said.
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