Preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy complication marked by high blood pressure and signs of damage to other organ systems, most often the liver and kidneys. This condition typically develops after 20 weeks of pregnancy in women whose blood pressure was previously normal. It represents a significant health concern during pregnancy, impacting both the birthing parent and the developing fetus.
Prevalence and Incidence
Preeclampsia affects a notable portion of pregnancies globally, with varying incidence rates across different regions. Worldwide, the condition is estimated to affect 2% to 8% of pregnancies annually. In the United States, preeclampsia complicates approximately 1 in 25 pregnancies, accounting for about 4% of all pregnancies. Severe preeclampsia, a more acute form, occurs in about 1.5% of all pregnancies in the United States.
Disparities in Preeclampsia
Statistical data reveals significant variations in preeclampsia rates among different populations, highlighting existing health disparities. Black women in the United States experience preeclampsia at a rate 60% higher than White women, and they are three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications, including preeclampsia. This racial disparity is a major public health concern, reflecting systemic inequities.
Socioeconomic status also influences preeclampsia prevalence, with individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds often facing higher risks due to factors such as access to quality healthcare and nutrition. Age plays a role, with very young mothers (under 18) and older mothers (over 35) showing increased rates. Geographically, differences exist between urban and rural areas, often linked to healthcare access and resources.
Maternal Health Outcomes
Preeclampsia significantly impacts maternal health, leading to various serious complications. Eclampsia, a severe form of preeclampsia involving seizures, affects approximately 1 in 200 women with the condition. HELLP syndrome, characterized by hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet count, occurs in about 10% to 20% of severe preeclampsia cases.
Other severe outcomes include stroke, which can occur in about 1% to 2% of preeclampsia cases, and acute kidney injury. Preeclampsia also increases the long-term risk of cardiovascular disease, showing a two-fold increased risk of hypertension later in life. Maternal mortality rates associated with preeclampsia vary globally but contribute significantly to pregnancy-related deaths.
Infant Health Outcomes
Preeclampsia also significantly impacts infant health. Preterm birth, defined as birth before 37 weeks of gestation, occurs in approximately 15% of pregnancies complicated by preeclampsia. This is often due to medically indicated early delivery to protect the health of the birthing parent.
Low birth weight, typically under 5.5 pounds, is another common outcome, affecting about 10-20% of infants born to mothers with preeclampsia. Fetal growth restriction, where the baby does not grow to its full potential, is frequently observed. Stillbirth rates are elevated in preeclamptic pregnancies, showing a two to five-fold increase in risk. Neonatal mortality rates are higher for affected infants, particularly due to complications related to prematurity.
Trends in Preeclampsia
Incidence rates of preeclampsia have been increasing over recent decades in several countries, including the United States. Between 1993 and 2014, the incidence of preeclampsia in the United States rose by 25%. This increase is a concerning public health trend.
This increase is linked to rising rates of chronic conditions within the reproductive age population, such as obesity, hypertension, and diabetes. Changes in diagnostic criteria and increased awareness may also contribute to the observed rise. This trend suggests a need for continued monitoring and public health initiatives.