The Parliamentary Secretary for Youth, Research, and Innovation, Keith Azzopardi Tanti, has launched the SEED project, Study of Early Events in Development, a three year national research initiative aimed at improving care and understanding of the first trimester of pregnancy in Malta through evidence-based research.

The project focuses on building a clearer scientific understanding of what happens in early pregnancy, an area where uncertainty remains and evidence is still limited. By strengthening this evidence base, the initiative will help protect patients and support safer, more informed care.

The research brings together the Faculty of Health Sciences and the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Malta, along with Mater Dei Hospital. It will establish a modern national database in this field by analysing hospital data alongside the experiences of patients and healthcare professionals.

Keith Azzopardi Tanti said the project reflects the direction set out in Malta Vision 2050, where research is expected to translate into practical improvements in people’s lives. He explained that the findings will support better planning and help shape healthcare services that are more responsive and adaptable, ensuring that evidence is used in ways that make a real difference.

Dr Lara Sammut, the project’s principal researcher, highlighted the need for stronger data in this area. She said, “SEED was developed to better understand what is happening at the beginning of pregnancy in Malta, where there is still a lot of uncertainty and limited evidence. Building this knowledge is key to making better decisions and improving care.”

The project shows how national research can directly inform policy and practice by combining clinical data with lived experience. It also reflects a continued commitment to supporting patients and healthcare professionals, while strengthening patient centred care in Malta.