Risk Factors of Pre-Eclampsia/Eclampsia and Its Adverse Outcomes in Low- and Middle-Income Families

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objective: to identify the socio-demographic and other risk factors associated with pre-eclampsia, eclampsia and its adverse outcomes in low- and middle-income pregnant females. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at three tertiary care hospitals of Peshawar Pakistan, on 113 pregnant women (43 with pre-eclampsia, 37 with eclampsia and 33 without pre-eclampsia/eclampsia). Data was collected by interviewing study subjects using a pre-tested questionnaire incorporating important risk factors of pre-eclampsia and eclampsis. Data was analyzed using SPSS. Results: Majority (89.4%) of women were >20 years of age. Out of 113 study participants, 78(69.02%) were from low-income (Rs2 still-births and majority (n=16/20; 80%) were from low-income group. Conclusion: Lower class socio-economic status and lack of antenatal visit are associated with pre-eclampsia and eclampsia and related adverse outcome. Interventions at primary care level are in need. Keywords: Pregnancy Outcome (MeSH), Eclampsia (MeSH), Pre-eclampsia (MeSH), Pregnancy (MeSH), Hypertension (MeSH), Low Income Population (MeSH), Poverty (MeSH)