ST. LOUIS — Saint Louis University (SLU) will start researching ways to help Missouri families obtain better access to diaper supplies as a way to improve maternal and infant health.

SLU was recently awarded a $538,431 grant from the Missouri Foundation for Health to conduct the three-year study, according to a press release. The work begins in May.

Improving infants’ and guardians’ well-being by decreasing diaper needs for those using diaper banks will be the focus of the research project, in addition to educating state stakeholders and policymakers on the issues.

“Babies can use an average of 10 diapers a day,” said Hisako Matsuo, Ph.D., the principal investigator on the project, and professor of sociology and anthropology.

“When families experience diaper shortages, it can lead to increased levels of stress for caregivers.”

Some policy solutions could include best practices done in other states, such as a diaper sales tax exemption or reduction, provision to fund local diaper banks, direct assistance in forms of vouchers or diapers, and/or Medicaid reimbursement, according to the press release.

Missouri has a 4.225% sales tax on feminine products and diapers while almost half of U.S. states exempt diapers from sales tax.

“Removing barriers like a luxury tax on necessary items like diapers could make things a little easier for families,” Matsuo said. “We are conducting evidence-based research with the goal of changing the system.”

The press release states that 20% of children in Missouri live with families that earn below the Federal Poverty Link where major federal assistance program funds cannot be used to buy diapers.

Many day cares require families to provide diapers for their children. Without diapers, children cannot be enrolled in day care, according to the press release.

“Families need to have a consistent, sufficient set of diapers to keep their baby dry,” said Jessica Barreca, Ph.D., program manager for community partnerships in interprofessional education (IPE) and adjunct faculty instructor in physical therapy.

“Having enough diapers allows babies to be healthy and happy.”

The research team will partner with the St. Louis Area Diaper Bank, partner banks around the state and Kids Win Missouri.