On World Preeclampsia Day, medical experts from AIIMS Delhi raised urgent alarms regarding preeclampsia in pregnancy. This severe hypertensive disorder continues to impact thousands of families in India. Although India has reduced maternal deaths, preeclampsia still contributes significantly to newborn complications.

Understanding the Indian Burden

Indeed, AIIMS specialists estimate that nearly two to four lakh Indian women suffer from preeclampsia every year. Consequently, it ranks as a leading cause of maternal mortality, right after hemorrhage and infection. Globally, this silent disease affects approximately 5% to 8% of all pregnancies. Furthermore, it claims more than 70,000 maternal lives and nearly five lakh infant lives annually. Unfortunately, many families ignore the early symptoms or dismiss them as normal pregnancy stress.

Identifying and Preventing Preeclampsia in Pregnancy

Doctors diagnose the condition when a pregnant woman develops high blood pressure and protein in her urine. Usually, this issue develops silently after the 20th week of gestation. Therefore, regular blood pressure monitoring remains the most critical screening tool. Fortunately, a first-trimester screening can help identify high-risk patients. For instance, women with diabetes, obesity, twin pregnancies, IVF, or chronic hypertension face elevated risks. After identifying these high-risk mothers, clinicians can start low-dose aspirin early in pregnancy. Ultimately, this simple intervention significantly reduces the chances of developing severe preeclampsia.

Recognizing the Warning Signs

Ignored symptoms can lead to severe complications, such as seizures, kidney failure, and brain hemorrhage. Therefore, pregnant women must never consider high blood pressure as normal. Specifically, patients should watch for persistent headaches, sudden swelling, and blurred vision. Additionally, breathlessness, severe abdominal pain, and reduced baby movements require immediate medical attention. Community health workers, including ASHAs and ANMs, play a vital role in spreading this awareness. Thus, early education can save lives before severe complications develop.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What are the main warning signs of preeclampsia?

Key warning signs include a severe headache, facial swelling, blurred vision, breathlessness, abdominal pain, and reduced baby movements.

Q2: How can doctors prevent preeclampsia in high-risk pregnancies?

First-trimester screening helps identify high-risk individuals. Additionally, starting low-dose aspirin therapy early can significantly lower preeclampsia risk.

Q3: Is high blood pressure normal during pregnancy?

No, high blood pressure is never normal during pregnancy. Instead, it is a serious symptom that requires immediate medical evaluation.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice or replace professional judgment. Refer to the latest local and national guidelines for clinical practice.

References

1. High Blood Pressure in Pregnancy Still Threatening Mothers, Babies DespiteMedical Advances: AIIMS Experts - ETHealthworld


2. Preeclampsia Is Preventable & Treatable, Yet It's India's 3rd Leading Cause Of Maternal Deaths: AIIMS doctor - Health and Me


3. AIIMS docs list key warning signs of preeclampsia for pregnant women - The Tribune