Understanding Childhood Diarrhea & Dehydration in Pakistan

SPIRESPIRE-GASTRO

SPIRE-GASTRO is a focused research initiative dedicated to studying acute watery diarrhea and dehydration in children under five — one of Pakistan’s leading causes of preventable child mortality. By developing the largest pediatric gastroenteritis database and collaborating with medical universities, SPIRE is working to improve clinical practices, antibiotic stewardship, and community awareness to save young lives.
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Why SPIRE-Gastro Matters

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High Childhood Mortality

Acute gastroenteritis and dehydration remain leading causes of death in children under five in Pakistan.

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Improper Antibiotic Use

Many children with diarrhea are treated with unnecessary antibiotics, worsening resistance and outcomes.

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Community Awareness Gap

Misconceptions and poor clinical practices contribute to delayed or inappropriate care.

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Lack of Data

No large-scale databases existed to document real-world management of diarrheal diseases in hospitals.

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SPIRE’s Intervention

SPIRE created the largest national dataset on pediatric diarrhea, partnering with Gandhara University to drive clinical reform and education.

SPIRE’s Approach for Gastroenteritis Research

1

Database Development

Compiled detailed records of over 800 children hospitalized with acute watery diarrhea.
2

Collaborative Research

Partnered with Gandhara University, Peshawar, for data analysis and publication.
3

Evidence-Based Practice

Highlighted the dangers of unnecessary antibiotic use in dehydration cases.
4

Education & Awareness

Trained healthcare providers and medical students on safe, rational treatment approaches.
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5. Publications & Policy

Research findings to inform future guidelines on diarrhea management in Pakistani hospitals.

Collaboration Opportunities

We welcome medical universities, pediatric departments, and public health experts to join the next phases of SPIRE-GASTRO.

Review and sign the official SPIRE-GASTRO MOU to join our growing research network.
  • Data collection or hospital participation
  • Statistical or manuscript writing support
  • Funding or technical contributions
Download SPIRE-Gastro MOU
Become a Collaborator

SPIRE-Gastro Projects

Frequently Asked Questions

SPIRE Gastro FAQs

What is SPIRE-GASTRO?

A national-level research project studying diarrhea and dehydration in children to improve hospital practices and reduce mortality.

Which institutions are part of it?

SPIRE collaborated with Gandhara University and several hospitals across KP.

What were the outcomes?

The first paper was submitted for publication, and a second manuscript is in preparation.

How can others participate?

Institutions can share data, contribute researchers, or join as co-authors for future publications.

Contact us

Get In Touch

    Contact Info

    Pakistan Office

    Islamabad,
    Pakistan

    Telephone

    (+92) 321 9801238

    Mail Us

    spirepkorg@gmail.com

    Opening Hours

    Mon-Fri: 10:00-18:00
    Sat-Sun: Closed