Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Group B Streptococcus Rectovaginal Colonization Rates and Serotype Distribution among Pregnant Women, Asia-Pacific Region, 2014-2025
Abstract
We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of group B Streptococcus (GBS) rectovaginal colonization prevalence, serotype distribution, and antimicrobial drug resistance (AMR) rates among pregnant women in the Asia-Pacific region. We included articles published in the MEDLINE, Embase, and PubMed databases during January 2014-October 2025. Overall, 1,623 studies were identified; 98 of those were included in the meta-analysis. Of 978,150 pregnant women, 172,973 were colonized with GBS; pooled estimated prevalence was 18.0% (95% CI 12%-23%). Studies from Southeast Asia were limited. GBS serotype distributions were reported in 24 studies; serotype III was the most common (range 5.0%-100.0%). Thirty studies included AMR rates; low (0%-2.0%) AMR rates were found for β-lactams. GBS colonization is common among pregnant women in the Asia-Pacific region. Continued surveillance of GBS prevalence will be needed, particularly in Pacific and Southeast Asian countries, to guide effective GBS prevention and treatment programs.
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a meta-analysis, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid. Reported size: 978,150 participants or records.
Read the paper
Related studies
- Ferulic acid regulates the AKT/GSK-3β/CRMP-2 signaling pathway in a middle cerebral artery occlusion animal model
- Novel Pharmacokinetic/Pharmacodynamic Parameters Quantify the Exposure–Effect Relationship of Levofloxacin against Fluoroquinolone-Resistant Escherichia coli
- Photochemical behavior of levofloxacin
- Correlation Between Dissolution Profiles of Salt-Form Drugs in Biorelevant Bicarbonate Buffer and Oral Drug Absorption: Importance of Dose/ Fluid Volume Ratio
- Evaluation of the synergistic potential and mechanisms of action for de novo designed cationic antimicrobial peptides
- Synthesis of [11C]levofloxacin
Go deeper in Evidence Hub
Evidence Hub adds a study data sheet (design, sample size, evidence level, key numbers), an AI summary and a chat grounded in the paper's text.