Hypertension in Pregnancy Linked To Early Mortality

MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
Dr. Lauren Theilen, MD

Obstetrics/Gynecology specialist
Salt Lake City, Utah.

MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What are the main findings?

Response: Women with a history of hypertensive disease of pregnancy are known to have increased risk of mortality from cardiovascular and other causes.

Our study shows that hypertensive disease of pregnancy is strongly associated with deaths due to diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. The association is strongest for early mortality – deaths occurring before age 50 – and life expectancy decreases with increasing number of affected pregnancies.

MedicalResearch.com: What should readers take away from your report?

Response: We don’t know whether hypertensive disease of pregnancy causes chronic disease, or if pregnancy unmasks an underlying predisposition to chronic disease; regardless, women with a history of hypertensive disease of pregnancy are at risk for adverse long-term health outcomes. These women should establish care with a primary care provider following their pregnancy to ensure that they receive appropriate screening and interventions.

MedicalResearch.com: What recommendations do you have for future research as a result of this study?

Response: Further studies are needed to determine whether early screening and intervention may improve long-term health outcomes among this population of women.

MedicalResearch.com: Thank you for your contribution to the MedicalResearch.com community.

Citation: Abstract present at the 2017:

Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine 

Long-term mortality risk and life expectancy following recurrent hypertensive disease of pregnancy

Note: Content is Not intended as medical advice. Please consult your health care provider regarding your specific medical condition and questions.

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Last Updated on February 1, 2017 by Marie Benz MD FAAD