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Could a $10 ruler save newborns from brain damage?

NCT ID NCT06687746

Completed Diagnosis Sponsor: George Washington University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested a simple, low-cost plastic ruler called the Bili-ruler to screen newborns for jaundice. Over 4,000 infants were checked with the ruler, a standard device, and visual inspection. The goal was to see if the ruler can accurately identify dangerous jaundice, especially in places where expensive equipment is not available.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance
Bili-ruler (a low-cost plastic icterometer device)
What this could lead to
If accurate, this cheap tool could help prevent brain damage and death from severe newborn jaundice in low-resource settings worldwide.
What could go wrong
The trial is completed but results are not yet widely confirmed; the ruler may be less accurate than standard devices, and its real-world impact depends on training and consistent use.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Congenital, Hereditary, and Neonatal Diseases and Abnormalities hyperbilirubinemia Hyperbilirubinemia, Neonatal Jaundice Jaundice, Neonatal perinatal disease transient familial neonatal hyperbilirubinemia

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

JAUNDICE, NEONATAL NEONATAL DISEASES AND ABNORMALITIES NEONATAL HYPERBILIRUBINEMIA SCREENING SCREENING TOOL

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Aga Khan University

    Karachi, Pakistan, Pakistan

  • Christian Medical College (CMC)

    Vellore, India, India

  • Kenya Medical Research Institute - Center for Global Health Research

    Kisumu, Kenya, Kenya

  • Society for Applied Studies (SAS)

    Hodal, India, India

  • University of North Carolina - Global Projects Zambia

    Lusaka, Zambia, Zambia

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