Determinants of preeclampsia among pregnant women at gestational age of above 20 weeks attending antenatal care at Fort Portal Regional Referral Hospital (FPRRH)

Abstract

Despite several interventions put in place in many countries of the world, preeclampsia still contributes greatly to maternal morbidity and mortality. Several factors have been cited as to increase the risk of preeclampsia among which are obesity, extreme of age, Nulliparity, change in pregnancy paternity, obesity among others. Lack of knowledge or awareness concerning preeclampsia has also been cited as to contribute adversely in terms of overall outcome. A study on preeclampsia and the various socio-demographic, modifiable variables would come in handy in informing interventional measures. This study aims to achieve just that. The study assessed the determinants of preeclampsia among pregnant women at gestational age of 20 weeks and above attending ANC at FPRRH. A descriptive checklist- and questionnaire-based cross-sectional study design was used which also involved review of 214 patient records was employed. Maternal age, Nulliparity, rural residence, obesity and lack of awareness concerning preeclampsia were significantly associated with preeclampsia. Among women diagnosed with preeclampsia at FPRRH, age (less than 18 or above 35 years), Nulliparity, change in male partner (paternity change) among the multiparas, low socio-economic status with mostly rural residence, and obesity were found to be statistically significant in predicting pre-eclampsia. It was also noted that awareness concerning preeclampsia was so low demanding interventional measures to correct since adequate knowledge and awareness positively impact prognosis and general outcome