Preconception Cardiovascular Risk Factor Differences Between Gestational Hypertension and Preeclampsia: Cohort Norway Study

Unique features of dyslipidemia in women across a lifetime and a tailored approach to management

Purpose of Review

Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death worldwide. Dyslipidemia is a critical modifiable risk factor for the prevention of cardiovascular disease. Dyslipidemia affects a large population of women and is especially pervasive within racial/ethnic minorities.

Recent Findings

Dyslipidemia in pregnancy leads to worse outcomes for patients and creates increased cardiovascular risk for women at an older age. However, women remain underscreened and undertreated compared to men. Females also comprise a small portion of clinical trial participants for lipid lowering agents with increased disease prevalence compared to trial representation. However, recent lipid trials have shown different efficacies of therapies such as ezetimibe, inclisiran, and bempedoic acid with a greater relative benefit for women.

Summary

Pathophysiology of dyslipidemia varies between men and women and across a woman's lifetime. While increased lipid levels or lipid imbalances are more common in postmenopausal women over age 50, conditions such as PCOS and FH produce higher cardiovascular risk for young women.Best practices for management of women with dyslipidemia include early screening with lifestyle intervention and pharmacotherapy with statin and non-statin agents to achieve guideline directed LDL-C thresholds.

Dyslipidemia management in women of reproductive potential: An expert clinical consensus from the national lipid association

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death among women and its incidence has been increasing recently, particularly among younger women. Across major professional society guidelines, dyslipidemia management remains a central tenet for atherosclerotic CVD prevention for both women and men. Despite this, women, particularly young women, who are candidates for statin therapy are less likely to be treated and less likely to achieve their recommended therapeutic objectives for low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels. Elevated LDL-C and triglycerides are the two most common dyslipidemias that should be addressed during pregnancy due to the increased risk for adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as preeclampsia, gestational diabetes mellitus, and pre-term delivery, as well as pancreatitis in the presence of severe hypertriglyceridemia. In this National Lipid Association Expert Clinical Consensus, we review the roles of nutrition, physical activity, and pharmacotherapy as strategies to address elevated levels of LDL-C and/or triglycerides among women of reproductive age. We include a special focus on points to consider during the shared decision-making discussion regarding pharmacotherapy for dyslipidemia during preconception planning, pregnancy, and lactation.

Clinical Analysis of Risk Factors and Perinatal Outcomes in Recurrent Pre-Eclampsia with Severe Features

To analyze the differences in risk factors and pregnancy outcomes between recurrent and initial pre-eclampsia(PE) with severe features. Data from recurrent (n = 128) and initial (n = 904) PE with severe features who terminated their pregnancy or gave birth at 20 weeks of gestation or later at the tertiary teaching hospital (Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Women and Children's Healthcare Hospital) from January 2016 to December 2022 were collected. Risk factors for recurrent PE with severe features and differences in pregnancy outcomes between the two groups were assessed using the chi-square test, student t-test, or nonparametric test. Independent risk factors for recurrent PE with severe features were further analyzed by logistic regression. (1) Logistic regression analysis identified 3 independent risk factors for recurrent PE with severe features: history of cesarean section, rural residence and chronic hypertension. In addition, assisted reproductive technology (ART) is an independent risk factor for initial PE with severe features; (2) The incidence of oligohydramnios, chorioamnionitis, preterm birth, stillbirth, fetal growth restriction (FGR) and abnormal umbilical blood flow was higher in the recurrent PE with severe features group than in the initial PE with severe features group(P < 0.05). In contrast, the incidence of premature rupture of membrane (PROM) and postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) was higher in the group of initial PE with severe features(P < 0.05); (3) In the recurrent PE with severe features group, gestational age(GA) of birth and birth weight were lower than those in the initial PE with severe features group(P < 0.05). Also, the incidence of mild asphyxia, the rate of neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) hospitalization, length of stay in NICU, and the rate of abandoning treatment in the recurrent PE with severe features group were higher than those in the initial PE with severe features group(P < 0.05). 3 independent risk factors was identified for recurrent PE with severe features: history of cesarean section, rural residence and chronic hypertension. Women with recurrent PE with severe features are more likely to have adverse perinatal outcomes than those with initial PE with severe features.

Parental genetically predicted liability for coronary heart disease and risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes: a cohort study

BACKGROUND

Adverse pregnancy outcomes (APO) may unmask or exacerbate a woman's underlying risk for coronary heart disease (CHD). We estimated associations of maternal and paternal genetically predicted liability for CHD with lifelong risk of APOs. We hypothesized that associations would be found for women, but not their male partners (negative controls).

METHODS

We studied up to 83,969‬ women (and up to 55,568‬ male partners) from the Norwegian Mother, Father and Child Cohort Study or the Trøndelag Health Study with genotyping data and lifetime history of any APO in their pregnancies (1967-2019) in the Medical Birth Registry of Norway (miscarriage, stillbirth, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, gestational diabetes, small for gestational age, large for gestational age, and spontaneous preterm birth). Maternal and paternal genetic risk scores (GRS) for CHD were generated using 148 gene variants (p-value < 5 × 10-8, not in linkage disequilibrium). Associations between GRS for CHD and each APO were determined using logistic regression, adjusting for genomic principal components, in each cohort separately, and combined using fixed effects meta-analysis.

RESULTS

One standard deviation higher GRS for CHD in women was related to increased risk of any hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (odds ratio [OR] 1.08, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.05-1.10), pre-eclampsia (OR 1.08, 95% CI 1.05-1.11), and small for gestational age (OR 1.04, 95% CI 1.01-1.06). Imprecise associations with lower odds of large for gestational age (OR 0.98, 95% CI 0.96-1.00) and higher odds of stillbirth (OR 1.04, 95% CI 0.98-1.11) were suggested. These findings remained consistent after adjusting for number of total pregnancies and the male partners' GRS and restricting analyses to stable couples. Associations for other APOs were close to the null. There was weak evidence of an association of paternal genetically predicted liability for CHD with spontaneous preterm birth in female partners (OR 1.02, 95% CI 0.99-1.05), but not with other APOs.

CONCLUSIONS

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, small for gestational age, and stillbirth may unmask women with a genetically predicted propensity for CHD. The association of paternal genetically predicted CHD risk with spontaneous preterm birth in female partners needs further exploration.

Routine first-trimester pre-eclampsia screening and maternal left ventricular geometry

OBJECTIVE

Pre-eclampsia (PE) is a pregnancy complication associated with premature cardiovascular disease morbidity and mortality (i.e. before 60 years of age or in the first year postpartum). PE is associated with adverse left ventricular (LV) remodeling in the peri- and postpartum periods, an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. This study aimed to compare LV geometry by LV mass (LVM) and LVM index (LVMI) between participants with a high vs low screening risk for preterm PE in the first trimester.

METHODS

This was a prospective cohort study of singleton pregnancies between 11 + 0 and 13 + 6 weeks' gestation that underwent screening for preterm PE as part of their routine first-trimester ultrasound assessment at a tertiary center in London, UK, from February 2019 until March 2020. Screening for preterm PE was performed using the Fetal Medicine Foundation algorithm. Participants with a screening risk of ≥ 1 in 50 for preterm PE were classified as high risk and those with a screening risk of ≤ 1 in 500 were classified as low risk. All participants underwent two-dimensional and M-mode transthoracic echocardiography.

RESULTS

A total of 128 participants in the first trimester of pregnancy were included in the analysis, with 57 (44.5%) participants screened as low risk and 71 (55.5%) participants as high risk for PE. The risk groups did not vary in maternal age and gestational age at assessment. Maternal body surface area and body mass index were significantly higher in the high-risk group (all P < 0.05). The high-risk participants were significantly more likely to be Afro-Caribbean, nulliparous and have a family history of hypertensive disease in pregnancy as well as other cardiovascular disease (all P < 0.05). In addition, mean arterial blood pressure (P < 0.001), mean heart rate (P < 0.001), median LVM (130.06 (interquartile range, 113.62-150.50) g vs 97.44 (81.68-114.16) g; P < 0.001) and mean LVMI (72.87 ± 12.2 g/m2 vs 57.54 ± 12.72 g/m2 ; P < 0.001) were significantly higher in the high-risk group. Consequently, those in the high-risk group were more likely to have abnormal LV geometry (37.1% vs 7.0%; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Early echocardiographic assessment in participants at high risk of preterm PE may unmask clinically healthy individuals who are at increased risk for future cardiovascular disease. Adverse cardiac remodeling in the first trimester of pregnancy may be an indicator of decreased cardiovascular reserve and subsequent dysfunctional cardiovascular adaptation in pregnancy. © 2023 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Pathophysiology of Pre-Eclampsia-Two Theories of the Development of the Disease

Pre-eclampsia (PE) continues to be a leading cause of maternal and fetal mortality and morbidity. While substantial progress has been made in understanding the pathomechanisms of PE, the pathophysiology of the disease is still not fully understood. While the "two-stage model" of the development of PE is the most widely accepted theory, stating that the placenta is the main source of the disease, there are some other pathophysiological models of PE. Among these other theories, the one considering heart dysfunction as serving as the primary cause of PE seems to be gaining increasing prominence. In this review, we aim to elucidate these two divergent concepts concerning the development of PE. Despite some differences in their proposed pathomechanisms, both theories share vital pathophysiological elements in common. A central and critical component in both models is impaired placental perfusion, which appears to be a crucial phenomenon in PE. A comprehensive understanding of the different pathomechanisms involved in PE may be helpful in clinical practice, prompting a more individual approach to care of patients with PE.

Understanding the Role of Chemerin in the Pathophysiology of Pre-Eclampsia

Chemerin is a multifaceted adipokine that is involved in multiple biological processes, including inflammation, angiogenesis, adipogenesis, and energy metabolism, as well as oxidative stress. There is a vast body of evidence for a crucial role of chemerin in the development of different cardiovascular diseases. Blood chemerin levels, as well as its placental expression, are elevated in patients with pre-eclampsia (PE) and correlate positively with the severity of the disease. This narrative review summarizes the current knowledge about the potential role of chemerin during PE development, with a particular focus on its involvement in oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction.

Is blood pressure 120-139/80-89 mmHg before 20 weeks a risk factor for hypertensive disorders of pregnancy? A meta-analysis

AIM

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy affect approximately 10% of pregnant women worldwide with serious fetal and maternal implications. Chronic hypertension is diagnosed prior to 20 weeks of gestation and affects 1.5% of pregnant women. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists defines hypertension in pregnancy as a systolic blood pressure higher than 140 mmHg or a diastolic blood pressure higher than 90 mmHg. In real-world clinical practice, practitioners consider the cut-off of 140/90 mmHg as a marker of true hypertension in pregnancy and consider blood pressures lower than that as normal.

METHODS

To assess the association between a lower range of blood pressures and the development of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, we performed a meta-analysis of current published studies comparing the occurrence of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy in patients with blood pressures of 120-139/80-89 mmHg before 20 weeks to those with blood pressures<120/80 mmHg.

RESULTS

We included 24 studies: 12362/106870 (11.6 %) patients with blood pressures of 120-139/80-89 mmHg, and 26044/463280 (5.6 %) with blood pressures lower than 120/80 mmHg, developed hypertensive disorders of pregnancy [risk ratio 2.85 (C.I. 2.47-3.3)] - test for overall effect: Z = 14.1 (p < 0.00001).

CONCLUSIONS

We showed evidence of poor pregnancy outcome in patients with blood pressure lower than the routinely accepted cut-off of 140/90 mmHg. Therefore, interventions to mitigate the risk of hypertensive disorders in pregnancy in women with blood pressures 120-139/80-89 mmHg should be planned in new clinical trials.

Association between preeclampsia in daughters and risk of cardiovascular disease in parents

Preeclampsia and cardiovascular disease (CVD) might share heritable underlying mechanisms. We investigated whether preeclampsia in daughters is associated with CVD in parents. In a register-based cohort study, we used Cox regression to compare rates of CVD (ischemic heart disease, ischemic stroke, myocardial infarction) in parents with ≥ 1 daughters who had preeclampsia and parents whose daughters did not have preeclampsia in Denmark, 1978-2018. Our cohort included 1,299,310 parents, of whom 87,251 had ≥ 1 daughters with preeclampsia and 272,936 developed CVD during 20,252,351 years of follow-up (incidence rate 135/10,000 person-years). Parents with one daughter who had preeclampsia were 1.19 times as likely as parents of daughters without preeclampsia to develop CVD at age < 55 years (hazard ratio [HR] 1.19, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.13-1.25). Having ≥ 2 daughters who had preeclampsia yielded an HR of 1.88 (95% CI 1.39-2.53). The corresponding HRs for CVD at ≥ 55 years of age were 1.13 (95% CI 1.12-1.15) and 1.27 (95% CI 1.16-1.38). Patterns of association were similar for all CVD subtypes. Effect magnitudes did not differ for mothers and fathers (p = 0.52). Analyses by timing of preeclampsia onset in daughters suggested a tendency toward stronger associations with earlier preeclampsia onset, particularly in parents < 55 years. Preeclampsia in daughters was associated with increased risks of CVD in parents. Increasing strength of association with increasing number of affected daughters, equally strong associations for mothers and fathers, and stronger associations for CVD occurring before age 55 years suggest that preeclampsia and CVD share common heritable mechanisms.

An update on maternal cardiac hemodynamics in fetal growth restriction and pre-eclampsia

Pre-eclampsia and fetal growth restriction (FGR) have been long related to primary placental dysfunction, caused by abnormal trophoblast invasion. Nevertheless, emerging evidence has led to a new hypothesis for the origin of pre-eclampsia and FGR. Suboptimal maternal cardiovascular adaptation has been shown to result in uteroplacental hypoperfusion, ultimately leading to placental hypoxic damage with secondary dysfunction. In this review, we summarize current evidence on maternal cardiac hemodynamics in FGR and pre-eclampsia. We also discuss the different approaches for antihypertensive treatment according to the hemodynamic phenotype observed in pre-eclampsia and FGR.

Modifiable Risk Factors for Cardiovascular Disease among Women with and without a History of Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in women. Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) affect 5−10% of pregnancies worldwide, and are an independent risk factor for CVD. A greater understanding of the rates of modifiable CVD risk factors in women with a history of HDP can inform CVD prevention priorities in this group. The aim of this study was to understand the rates of individual and multiple modifiable risk factors for CVD (body mass index, fruit and vegetable intake, physical activity, sitting time, smoking, alcohol consumption and depressive symptoms) among women with a history of HDP, and assess whether they differ to women without a history of HDP. This study is a cross-sectional analysis of self-reported data collected for the Australian Longitudinal Study of Women’s Health (ALSWH). The sample included 5820 women aged 32−37 years old, who completed survey 7 of the ALSWH in 2015. Women with a history of HDP had a higher multiple CVD modifiable risk factor score compared to those without HDP (mean (SD): 2.3 (1.4) vs. 2.0 (1.3); p < 0.01). HDP history was significantly associated with a higher body mass index (p < 0.01), high-risk alcohol consumption (p = 0.04) and more depressive symptoms (p < 0.01). Understanding that women with a history of HDP have higher CVD risk factors, specifically body mass index, alcohol consumption and depressive symptoms, allows clinicians to provide appropriate and tailored CVD interventions for this group of women.

Focusing on the role of secretin/adhesion (Class B) G protein-coupled receptors in placental development and preeclampsia

Preeclampsia, a clinical syndrome mainly characterized by hypertension and proteinuria, with a worldwide incidence of 3–8% and high maternal mortality, is a risk factor highly associated with maternal and offspring cardiovascular disease. However, the etiology and pathogenesis of preeclampsia are complicated and have not been fully elucidated. Obesity, immunological diseases and endocrine metabolic diseases are high-risk factors for the development of preeclampsia. Effective methods to treat preeclampsia are lacking, and termination of pregnancy remains the only curative treatment for preeclampsia. The pathogenesis of preeclampsia include poor placentation, uteroplacental malperfusion, oxidative stress, endoplasmic reticulum stress, dysregulated immune tolerance, vascular inflammation and endothelial cell dysfunction. The notion that placenta is the core factor in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia is still prevailing. G protein-coupled receptors, the largest family of membrane proteins in eukaryotes and the largest drug target family to date, exhibit diversity in structure and function. Among them, the secretin/adhesion (Class B) G protein-coupled receptors are essential drug targets for human diseases, such as endocrine diseases and cardiometabolic diseases. Given the great value of the secretin/adhesion (Class B) G protein-coupled receptors in the regulation of cardiovascular system function and the drug target exploration, we summarize the role of these receptors in placental development and preeclampsia, and outlined the relevant pathological mechanisms, thereby providing potential drug targets for preeclampsia treatment.

Association of gestational hypertension and preeclampsia with nonsyndromic orofacial clefts in China: a large prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

The associations between hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and nonsyndromic orofacial clefts (NSOFCs) are not consistent or based on case-control study design. We hypothesize that OFCs and NSOFCs are associated with hypertensive disease in pregnancy.

METHODS

Data were collected from the Project for Neural Tube Defects Prevention (1993-1996), a large population-based cohort study conducted in two southern provinces of China. We used a system to record all births after 20 complete gestational weeks, including live births and stillbirths, and all structural congenital anomalies regardless of gestational week. A total of 200 215 singleton live births without other external birth defects were finally included.

RESULTS

The incidence of NSOFCs was 20.2 per 10 000 for the whole population, and 20.5 and 39.2 per 10 000 for women with gestational hypertension and preeclampsia, respectively. Compared with the nonpreeclampsia group, preeclampsia was associated with an increased risk of NSOFCs [adjusted risk ratio (RR) = 2.02, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.27-3.20], cleft lip with or without cleft palate (CL/P) [adjusted RR = 2.24, 95% CI 1.37-3.65], and cleft lip and palate (CLP) [adjusted RR = 2.60, 95% CI 1.45-4.67] but not cleft lip only (CLO) [adjusted RR = 1.66, 95% CI 0.68-4.07] or cleft palate only (CPO) [adjusted RR = 1.09, 95% CI 0.27-4.45]. No associations were observed between gestational hypertension and any types of NSOFCs.

CONCLUSION

Our study supported that among hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, only preeclampsia increased the risk of NSOFCs and its subtypes (CL/P and CLP).

Pre-eclampsia: a Scoping Review of Risk Factors and Suggestions for Future Research Direction

Abstract

Most of maternal deaths are preventable, and one-quarter of maternal deaths are due to pre-eclampsia and eclampsia. Prenatal screening is essential for detecting and managing pre-eclampsia. However, pre-eclampsia screening is solely based on maternal risk factors and has low (< 5% in the USA) detection rates. This review looks at pre-eclampsia from engineering, public health, and medical points of view. First, pre-eclampsia is defined clinically, and the biological basis of established risk factors is described. The multiple theories behind pre-eclampsia etiology should serve as the scientific basis behind established risk factors for pre-eclampsia; however, African American race does not have sufficient evidence as a risk factor. We then briefly describe predictive statistical models that have been created to improve screening detection rates, which use a combination of biophysical and biochemical biomarkers, as well as aspects of patient medical history as inputs. Lastly, technologies that aid in advancing pre-eclampsia screening worldwide are explored. The review concludes with suggestions for more robust pre-eclampsia research, which includes diversifying study sites, improving biomarker analytical tools, and for researchers to consider studying patients before they become pregnant to improve pre-eclampsia detection rates. Additionally, researchers must acknowledge the systemic racism involved in using race as a risk factor and include qualitative measures in study designs to capture the effects of racism on patients.

Lay Summary

Pre-eclampsia is a pregnancy-specific hypertensive disorder that can affect almost every organ system and complicates 2-8% of pregnancies globally. Here, we focus on the biological basis of the risk factors that have been identified for the condition. African American race currently does not have sufficient evidence as a risk factor and has been poorly studied. Current clinical methods poorly predict a patient's likelihood of developing pre-eclampsia; thus, researchers have made statistical models that are briefly described in this review. Then, low-cost technologies that aid in advancing pre-eclampsia screening are discussed. The review ends with suggestions for research direction to improve pre-eclampsia screening in all settings.Overall, we suggest that the future of pre-eclampsia screening should aim to identify those at risk before they become pregnant. We also suggest that the clinical standard of assessing patient risk solely on patient characteristics needs to be reevaluated, that study locations of pre-eclampsia research need to be expanded beyond a few high-income countries, and that low-cost technologies should be developed to increase access to prenatal screening.

Preconception leisure-time physical activity and family history of stroke and myocardial infarction associate with preterm delivery: findings from a Norwegian cohort

Background

Preterm birth poses short and long-term health consequences for mothers and offspring including cardiovascular disease sequelae. However, studies evaluating preexisting family history of cardiovascular disease and risk factors, such as physical activity, as they relate prospectively to risk of delivering preterm are lacking.

Objectives

To evaluate whether preconception past-year weekly leisure-time physical activity or a family history of stroke or of myocardical infarction prior to age 60 years in first degree relatives associated, prospectively, with preterm delivery.

Design

Cohort study. Baseline data from Cohort Norway (1994–2003) health surveys were linked to the Medical Birth Registry of Norway for identification of all subsequent births (1994–2012). Logistic regression models provided odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for preterm delivery (< 37 weeks gestation); multinomial logistic regression provided OR for early preterm (< 34 weeks) and late preterm (34 through to end of 36 weeks gestation) relative to term deliveries.

Results

Mean (SD) length of time from baseline health survey participation to delivery was 5.6 (3.5) years. A family history of stroke associated with a 62% greater risk for late preterm deliveries (OR 1.62; CI 1.07–2.47), while a family history of myocardial infarction associated with a 66% greater risk of early preterm deliveries (OR 1.66; CI 1.11–2.49). Sensitivity analyses, removing pregnancies complicated by hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, diabetes mellitus, and stillbirth deliveries, gave similar results. Preconception vigorous physical activity of three or more hours relative to less than 1 h per week associated with increased risk of early preterm delivery (OR 1.52; 95% CI 1.01–2.30), but not late or total preterm deliveries. Light physical activity of three or more hours per week relative to less activity prior to pregnancy was not associated with early, late, or total preterm deliveries.

Conclusions

Results suggest that family history of cardiovascular disease may help identify women at risk for preterm delivery. Further, research is needed regarding preconception and very early pregnancy vigorous physical activity and associated risks.

Preconceptual leptin levels in gestational diabetes and hypertensive pregnancy

Pregnancy - induced hypertension (PIH), preeclampsia (PE), and gestational diabetes (GDM) are common adverse outcomes in pregnancy.

OBJECTIVE

To find out whether preconceptual leptin levels differ in subsequent pregnancy between control vs. GDM and hypertensive pregnancy groups.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data was from The Cardiovascular Risk in Young Finns Study and The Medical Birth Register of Finland. Of 293 subjects 71 developed GDM, 27 PIH/PE and 201 were controls.

RESULTS

Leptin was higher in GDM (p < 0.0001) and PIH/PE (p = 0.0002) groups compared to control. GDM group was robust to BMI matching (p = 0,0081).

CONCLUSION

Leptin was higher in GDM (p < 0.0001) and PIH/PE (p = 0.0002) groups compared to control. GDM group was robust to BMI matching (p = 0,0081).

The placenta and preeclampsia: villain or victim?

Preeclampsia is a disease whose characterization has not changed in the 150 years since the cluster of signs associated with the disorder were first described. Although our understanding of the pathophysiology of preeclampsia has advanced considerably since then, there is still little consensus regarding the true etiology of preeclampsia. As a consequence, preeclampsia has earned the moniker "disease of theories," predominantly because the underlying biological mechanisms linking clinical epidemiologic findings to observed organ dysfunction in preeclampsia are far from clear. Despite the lack of cohesive evidence, expert consensus favors the hypothesis that preeclampsia is a primary placental disorder. However, there is now emerging evidence that suboptimal maternal cardiovascular performance resulting in uteroplacental hypoperfusion is more likely to be the cause of secondary placental dysfunction in preeclampsia. Preeclampsia and cardiovascular disease share the same risk factors, preexisting cardiovascular disease is the strongest risk factor (chronic hypertension, congenital heart disease) for developing preeclampsia, and there are now abundant data from maternal echocardiography and angiogenic marker studies that cardiovascular dysfunction precedes the development of preeclampsia by several weeks or months. Importantly, cardiovascular signs and symptoms (hypertension, cerebral edema, cardiac dysfunction) predominate in preeclampsia at clinical presentation and persist into the postnatal period with a 30% risk of chronic hypertension in the decade after birth. Placental malperfusion caused by suboptimal maternal cardiovascular performance may lead to preeclampsia, thereby explaining the preponderance of cardiovascular drugs (aspirin, calcium, statins, metformin, and antihypertensives) in preeclampsia prevention strategies. Despite the seriousness of the maternal and fetal consequences, we are still developing sensitive screening, reliable diagnostic, effective therapeutic, or improvement strategies for postpartum maternal cardiovascular legacy in preeclampsia. The latter will only become clear with an acceptance and understanding of the cardiovascular etiology of preeclampsia.

Preeclampsia has two phenotypes which require different treatment strategies

The opinion on the mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of preeclampsia still divides scientists and clinicians. This common complication of pregnancy has long been viewed as a disorder linked primarily to placental dysfunction, which is caused by abnormal trophoblast invasion, however, evidence from the previous two decades has triggered and supported a major shift in viewing preeclampsia as a condition that is caused by inherent maternal cardiovascular dysfunction, perhaps entirely independent of the placenta. In fact, abnormalities in the arterial and cardiac functions are evident from the early subclinical stages of preeclampsia and even before conception. Moving away from simply observing the peripheral blood pressure changes, studies on the central hemodynamics reveal two different mechanisms of cardiovascular dysfunction thought to be reflective of the early-onset and late-onset phenotypes of preeclampsia. More recent evidence identified that the underlying cardiovascular dysfunction in these phenotypes can be categorized according to the presence of coexisting fetal growth restriction instead of according to the gestational period at onset, the former being far more common at early gestational ages. The purpose of this review is to summarize the hemodynamic research observations for the two phenotypes of preeclampsia. We delineate the physiological hemodynamic changes that occur in normal pregnancy and those that are observed with the pathologic processes associated with preeclampsia. From this, we propose how the two phenotypes of preeclampsia could be managed to mitigate or redress the hemodynamic dysfunction, and we consider the implications for future research based on the current evidence. Maternal hemodynamic modifications throughout pregnancy can be recorded with simple-to-use, noninvasive devices in obstetrical settings, which require only basic training. This review includes a brief overview of the methodologies and techniques used to study hemodynamics and arterial function, specifically the noninvasive techniques that have been utilized in preeclampsia research.

Failure of physiological transformation and spiral artery atherosis: their roles in preeclampsia

Physiological transformation with remodeling of the uteroplacental spiral arteries is key to a successful placentation and normal placental function. It is an intricate process that involves, but is not restricted to, complex interactions between maternal decidual immune cells and invasive trophoblasts in the uterine wall. In normal pregnancy, the smooth muscle cells of the arterial tunica media of uteroplacental spiral arteries are replaced by invading trophoblasts and fibrinoid, and the arterial diameter increases 5- to 10-fold. Poor remodeling of the uteroplacental spiral arteries is linked to early-onset preeclampsia and several other major obstetrical syndromes, including fetal growth restriction, placental abruption, and spontaneous preterm premature rupture of membranes. Extravillous endoglandular and endovenous trophoblast invasions have recently been put forth as potential contributors to these syndromes as well. The well-acknowledged disturbed extravillous invasion of maternal spiral arteries in preeclampsia is summarized, as are briefly novel concepts of disturbed extravillous endoglandular and endovenous trophoblast invasions. Acute atherosis is a foam cell lesion of the uteroplacental spiral arteries associated with poor remodeling. It shares some morphologic features with early stages of atherosclerosis, but several molecular differences between these lesions have also recently been revealed. Acute atherosis is most prevalent at the maternal-fetal interface, at the tip of the spiral arteries. The localization of acute atherosis downstream of poorly remodeled arteries suggests that alterations in blood flow may trigger inflammation and foam cell development. Acute atherosis within the decidua basalis is not, however, confined to unremodeled areas of spiral arteries or to hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and may even be present in some clinically uneventful pregnancies. Given that foam cells of atherosclerotic lesions are known to arise from smooth muscle cells or macrophages activated by multiple types of inflammatory stimulation, we have proposed that multiple forms of decidual vascular inflammation may cause acute atherosis, with or without poor remodeling and/or preeclampsia. Furthermore, we propose that acute atherosis may develop at different gestational ages, depending on the type and degree of the inflammatory insult. This review summarizes the current knowledge of spiral artery remodeling defects and acute atherosis in preeclampsia. Some controversies will be presented, including endovascular and interstitial trophoblast invasion depths, the concept of 2-stage trophoblast invasion, and whether the replacement of maternal spiral artery endothelium by fetal endovascular trophoblasts is permanent. We will discuss the role of acute atherosis in the pathophysiology of preeclampsia and short- and long-term health correlates. Finally, we suggest future opportunities for research on this intriguing uteroplacental interface between the mother and fetus.

Risk of gestational hypertension and preeclampsia in pregnant women with new onset blood pressure of 120-129/≤89 mmHg: a meta-analysis of prospective studies

BACKGROUND

To explore whether elevated blood pressure and stage 1 hypertension were risks to GH and PE occurrence by a meta-analysis.

METHODS

Electronic databases were searched systematically up to Dec 2020. Combined risk ratio (RR) and 95%CI were used to evaluate the relationship between two blood pressure groups and GH and PE.

RESULTS

Seven studies were included in this study. In elevated blood pressure group, the overall RR of GH group is 1.93 and the combined RR is 1.98 in PE group.

CONCLUSION

Elevated BP and stage 1 hypertension were risk factors of GH and PE occurrence in pregnant women.

Defective Uteroplacental Vascular Remodeling in Preeclampsia: Key Molecular Factors Leading to Long Term Cardiovascular Disease

Preeclampsia is a complex hypertensive disorder in pregnancy which can be lethal and is responsible for more than 70,000 maternal deaths worldwide every year. Besides the higher risk of unfavorable obstetric outcomes in women with preeclampsia, another crucial aspect that needs to be considered is the association between preeclampsia and the postpartum cardiovascular health of the mother. Currently, preeclampsia is classified as one of the major risk factors of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in women, which doubles the risk of venous thromboembolic events, stroke, and ischemic heart disease. In order to comprehend the pathophysiology behind the linkage between preeclampsia and the development of postpartum CVD, a thorough understanding of the abnormal uteroplacental vascular remodeling in preeclampsia is essential. Therefore, this review aims to summarize the current knowledge of the defective process of spiral artery remodeling in preeclampsia and how the resulting placental damage leads to excessive angiogenic imbalance and systemic inflammation in long term CVD. Key molecular factors in the pathway-including novel findings of microRNAs-will be discussed with suggestions of future management strategies of preventing CVD in women with a history of preeclampsia.

Cardiovascular risk factors before and during pregnancy: Does pregnancy unmask or initiate risk?

OBJECTIVES

To understand if pregnancy unmasks previously silent cardiovascular (CV) adverse factors, or initiates lasting injury.

METHODS

Pre-pregnancy and during pregnancy CV risk factors (blood pressure, fasting lipids, and glucose) from 296 women belonging to studies in the International Childhood Cardiovascular Cohort (i3C) Consortium, a group of studies assessing the relationship between child and adolescent CV risk factors and adult outcomes, were used. Correlation coefficients between the pre- and during pregnancy measures were calculated, and the mean difference between the measures was modeled with adjustment for age, body mass index, race, smoking, and study.

RESULTS

Measures were strongly correlated at pre- and during-pregnancy visits (p < 0.01), with r of between 0.30 and 0.55. In most cases, the difference between pre-pregnancy and during-pregnancy did not differ significantly from 0 after adjustment for confounders. Stratification by gestational age indicated stronger correlations with measurements obtained during the first and second trimesters than the third. The correlation did not differ by the time elapsed between the pre-pregnancy and pregnancy visits.

CONCLUSIONS

Pre- and during-pregnancy CV risk factors are moderately well correlated. This may indicate that susceptible women enter pregnancy with higher risk rather than pregnancy inducing new vascular or metabolic effects.

Fumaric acid and succinic acid treat gestational hypertension by downregulating the expression of KCNMB1 and TET1

The present study hypothesized that fumaric acid and succinic acid may exhibit therapeutic effects on gestational hypertension. During pregnancy, estrogen upregulates ten-eleven translocation 1 (TET1) expression, which subsequently increases calcium-activated potassium channel subunit β1 (KCNMB1) expression. KCNMB1 is associated with hypertension. Fumaric acid and succinic acid are understood to inhibit TET. Therefore, the present study investigated whether fumaric acid and succinic acid exhibit therapeutic effects on gestational hypertension and whether these effects are mediated by TET1 and KCNMB1. Nω-Nitro-L-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride was injected into rats to establish a gestational hypertension model. Dimethyl fumarate (DMF) and succinic acid were administrated into rats to treat gestational hypertension. Rats were divided into five groups: i) Control; ii) model; iii) DMF; iv) succinic acid; and v) DMF + succinic acid. Blood pressure was monitored by a noninvasive meter and urinary protein was determined using a urinary protein kit. Placenta pathology was examined by hematoxylin-eosin staining. Compared with the control group, urinary protein and blood pressure in the model group increased significantly. The placental cells in the control group were arranged orderly. However, in the model group, decidual cellular edema of placenta and vacuolar degeneration were observed, and the intervascular membrane was markedly thicker with plenty of fibrin deposition. These results indicate successful establishment of a gestational hypertension model. However, compared with the model group, urinary protein, blood pressure, edema, vacuoles and fibrin deposition were markedly reduced in the DMF, succinic acid and DMF + succinic acid groups. mRNA and protein levels of TET1 and KCNMB1 in placenta were evaluated by immunohistochemical analysis, reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blotting. The TET1 and KCNMB1 levels in the model group were markedly increased compared with those in the control group. However, compared with the model group, the expression levels were markedly downregulated in the DMF, succinic acid and DMF + succinic acid groups. In conclusion, fumaric acid and succinic acid may treat gestational hypertension by downregulating the expression of KCNMB1 and TET1.

Headache and distress during pregnancy

OBJECTIVE

To determine the prevalence of headache, review variables believed to be associated, and assess distress levels in pregnant women.

METHODS

This is a cross-sectional study conducted on pregnant women who presented to a Training and Research Hospital in Sakarya, Turkey from June 1, 2020 to December 1, 2020. The study group consisted of 600 pregnant women who agreed to take part in the study. Chi-squared test and logistic regression analysis were used to analyze the data. Statistical significance level was accepted as P value of 0.05 or less.

RESULTS

The ages of pregnant women ranged from 19 to 44 years with a mean age of 29.01 ± 5.27 years. Prevalence of headache during pregnancy was found to be 55.7% (n = 334). The number of pregnant women at of distress was found to be 144 (24.0%). There was no difference between women with and without headache and between severity of headache and prevalence of distress (P > 0.05 for each).

CONCLUSION

Headache is an important health issue in pregnant women. There was no relationship between the presence and severity of headache and distress level.

The association of malaria infection and gestational hypertension in Africa: Systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) contribute 14% to global maternal mortality. HDP encompasses several subcategories, including gestational hypertension (GH) and pre-eclampsia. These two conditions are both characterised by a rise in blood pressure, with an onset from 20 weeks of gestation. They also share some common risk factors. The current definition of pre-eclampsia includes raised blood pressure in the absence of proteinuria, thus presenting the two conditions as a spectrum. In this article, we refer to both conditions as gestational hypertension, which is our outcome of interest. The aetiology of GH is not yet clearly understood. Observational studies have suggested that malaria may be associated with GH. However, the evidence from these small studies has been inconclusive. Having a better understanding of the association between malaria and GH may help inform prevention strategies to reduce maternal and infant mortality and morbidity.

Methods

In assessing the association between malaria infection and GH we explored open access articles published in the English language on Medline, Embase, WHO GIM and Google scholar. The subject related articles were retrieved and processed according to preferred reporting items in systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Search date was 9th week of 2018. Inverse variance weighting method in Revman 5 software (Cochrane Collaboration, London, United Kingdom) was used to aggregate evidence by computing the pooled odds ratio to show the nature and strength of the relationship between malaria and GH.

Results

Using critical appraisal skills program (CASP) checklist tool we identified four good quality case-control studies. The total sample size was 1281 women out of which 518 were cases. These studies together show malaria is associated with GH with an overall odds ratio of 2.67, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.58-4.53. Heterogeneity of the individual studies supported fixed effect modelling assumptions (I² = 0%). Malaria infection may have a constant effect on GH across different African populations. The funnel plot did not suggest publication bias however, the four studies involved in the meta-analysis were insufficient to rule it out.

Conclusions

Our findings provide evidence of an association between malaria infection and gestational hypertension; this underscores the need to control malaria especially during pregnancy.

Can We Improve Cardiovascular Disease for Women Using Data Under Our Noses?: A Need for Changes in Policy and Focus

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of death among women, resulting in 418,665 deaths in 2016, and accounts for 1 in every 4 female deaths in the United States.1 There are important sex and gender differences in CVD between women and men that contribute to diagnostic, prognostic and treatment uncertainty, resulting in suboptimal CVD care in women. Understanding and addressing these sex and gender differences is an opportunity to improve human health for both women and men. Notably, 86% of US women have at least one pregnancy, and prior work consistently identifies the 1 in 5 pregnancies with adverse pregnancy outcomes (APOs), such as gestational hypertensive disorders including pre-eclampsia, to elevate risk for future CVD in women.2 In short, a risk predictor readily available in the vast majority of women – literally under our collective nose - might be harnessed for relevant sex-specific atherosclerotic CVD (ASCVD) risk information to address the preventive, diagnostic and treatment gaps that adversely impact women.

Postpartum plasma metabolomic profile among women with preeclampsia and preterm delivery: implications for long-term health

BACKGROUND

Preeclampsia and preterm delivery (PTD) are believed to affect women's long-term health including cardiovascular disease (CVD), but the biological underpinnings are largely unknown. We aimed to test whether maternal postpartum metabolomic profiles, especially CVD-related metabolites, varied according to PTD subtypes with and without preeclampsia, in a US urban, low-income multi-ethnic population.

METHODS

This study, from the Boston Birth Cohort, included 980 women with term delivery, 79 with medically indicated PTD (mPTD) and preeclampsia, 52 with mPTD only, and 219 with spontaneous PTD (sPTD). Metabolomic profiling in postpartum plasma was conducted by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Linear regression models were used to assess the associations of each metabolite with mPTD with preeclampsia, mPTD only, and sPTD, respectively, adjusting for pertinent covariates. Weighted gene coexpression network analysis was applied to investigate interconnected metabolites associated with the PTD/preeclampsia subgroups. Bonferroni correction was applied to account for multiple testing.

RESULTS

A total of 380 known metabolites were analyzed. Compared to term controls, women with mPTD and preeclampsia showed a significant increase in 36 metabolites, mainly representing acylcarnitines and multiple classes of lipids (diacylglycerols, triacylglycerols, phosphocholines, and lysophosphocholines), as well as a decrease in 11 metabolites including nucleotides, steroids, and cholesteryl esters (CEs) (P < 1.3 × 10^-4). Alterations of diacylglycerols, triacylglycerols, and CEs in women with mPTD and preeclampsia remained significant when compared to women with mPTD only. In contrast, the metabolite differences between women with mPTD only and term controls were only seen in phosphatidylethanolamine class. Women with sPTD had significantly different levels of 16 metabolites mainly in amino acid, nucleotide, and steroid classes compared to term controls, of which, anthranilic acid, bilirubin, and steroids also had shared associations in women with mPTD and preeclampsia.

CONCLUSION

In this sample of US high-risk women, PTD/preeclampsia subgroups each showed some unique and shared associations with maternal postpartum plasma metabolites, including those known to be predictors of future CVD. These findings, if validated, may provide new insight into metabolomic alterations underlying clinically observed PTD/preeclampsia subgroups and implications for women's future cardiometabolic health.

Magnesium Lithospermate B Downregulates the Levels of Blood Pressure, Inflammation, and Oxidative Stress in Pregnant Rats with Hypertension

Background

Magnesium lithospermate B (MLB) was shown to suppress oxidative stress and reduce hypertension, but the role of MLB in pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH) remains unknown. The objective of this study was to demonstrate the effects of MLB on rats with PIH.

Methods

A total of 40 pregnant SD rats were selected, and 30 rats were orally given NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME, 60 mg/kg/day) to establish PIH rat models. Rats were equally divided into four groups: control, PIH, 5 mg/kg MLB, and 10 mg/kg MLB. MLB was consecutively administered into PIH rats for one week. The effects of MLB on mean arterial blood pressure (MAP), urine protein level, inflammation, and oxidative stress together with angiogenesis were analyzed.

Results

MLB prevented the elevation in MAP and urine protein levels induced by L-NAME. The activities of inflammatory cytokines were highly increased in serum and placental tissues of PIH rats, while cotreatment with MLB partially reversed the activities of these cytokines. MLB also recovered the expression of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in plasma of PIH rats together with levels of oxidative stress and antioxidant capacity in the placenta of PIH rats. The decreased expressions of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), and NO observed in PIH rats were increased by MLB. In addition, 10 mg/kg MLB exhibited higher protective effects as compared to lower doses of 5 mg/kg.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that pretreatment with MLB decreased MAP, inflammation, and oxidative stress in rats with gestational hypertension.

Family History of Hypertension, Cardiovascular Disease, or Diabetes and Risk of Developing Preeclampsia: A Systematic Review

Preeclampsia is a severe pregnancy complication with high potential for adverse effects on maternal and fetal health during the perinatal period. It is also associated with an increased risk of maternal cardiovascular disease later in life. Development of preeclampsia can be decreased by prescribing low-dose aspirin to high-risk women. At present, maternal and pregnancy factors are used to assess the risk of preeclampsia. One additional factor that could add to the assessment of risk is a family history of hypertension, cardiovascular disease, or diabetes, especially for nulliparous women who do not have a pregnancy history to inform treatment decisions. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review to assess the association between family history of the aforementioned conditions and preeclampsia. Four databases including MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, and CINAHL/pre-CINAHL were searched for observational studies that examined a family history of hypertension, cardiovascular disease, or diabetes in women with preeclampsia and in a control population. Studies were evaluated for quality using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. A total of 84 relevant studies were identified. A meta-analysis was not conducted due to suspected heterogeneity in the included studies. Most studies reported a positive association between a family history of hypertension or cardiovascular disease and the development of preeclampsia. The majority of studies examining family history of diabetes reported non-significant associations. Overall, family history of hypertension or cardiovascular disease is associated with a higher risk for developing preeclampsia and should be considered when assessing women in the first trimester for low-dose aspirin.

Gestational Hypertension as Risk Factor of Hypertension in Middle-Aged and Older Women

The association of gestational hypertension (GH) with future hypertension in Japanese women is unclear. Hence, this study aimed to examine the association between GH and the risk of future hypertension in middle-aged-to-older Japanese women. A case-control study was performed, including 62 hypertensive women (case) and 75 nonhypertensive women (control). GH during the first pregnancy was diagnosed on the basis of the Maternal and Child Health Handbook record. Hypertensive women were recruited from outpatients in the hospital and residents who completed an annual health check-up in a community. Hypertension was defined as blood pressure with systolic blood pressure ≥140 mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressure ≥90 mmHg, or taking antihypertensive medications. The average age (SD) of the cases and controls at the time of recruitment was 63.1 (8.4) and 57.7 (9.4), respectively. The multivariable-adjusted odds ratio of GH for hypertension in middle-aged-to-older women was 4.2 (95% confidence interval, 1.0–17.5) after adjustment for potential confounding factors such as age and body-mass index (BMI) upon recruitment, prepregnancy BMI, and age at first delivery. In conclusion, GH can be an independent risk factor for future hypertension among Japanese women.

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, obesity, and hypertension in later life by age group: a cross-sectional analysis

We investigated whether the association between a history of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) and hypertension in later life varies by age group and the effect of obesity on the association between a history of HDP and hypertension in later life. This cross-sectional population-based study was conducted at the Tohoku Medical Megabank Project in Miyagi and Iwate, Japan. The study subjects were 33,412 parous women of 20 years of age and older. We used multivariate logistic regression analysis to assess the association between a history of HDP and hypertension. We constructed a composite variable that combined a history of HDP (±) and overweight/obesity (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m²) (±), resulting in four categories, and analyzed the risks of each category by multivariate logistic regression analysis. In total, 1585 (4.7%) women had a history of HDP. The prevalence of hypertension was higher in women with HDP (51.4%) than in those without HDP (36.8%; p < 0.01). The adjusted odds ratios (ORs) for hypertension in women with HDP in their 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s, and 70s or older were 3.63, 1.84, 2.15, 1.48, and 1.86, respectively. In the interaction analysis, the association between a history of HDP and hypertension was stronger in women in their 30s-50s than in women who were 60 or older (p = 0.057). The adjusted ORs for hypertension were higher in overweight/obese women with HDP than in their nonoverweight/obese counterparts in all age groups (30s: 27.17 vs. 2.22; 70s: 4.75 vs. 1.90). In conclusion, the association between HDP and later hypertension was stronger in younger women and in obese women in the 30-70 age group.

Disparities in the Prevalence of Excess Heart Age Among Women with a Recent Live Birth

Background: Understanding and addressing cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk has implications for maternal and child health outcomes. Heart age, the modeled age of an individual's cardiovascular system based on risk level, and excess heart age, the difference between a person's heart age and chronological age, are alternative simplified ways to communicate CVD risk. Among women with a recent live birth, we predicted heart age, calculated prevalence of excess heart age (≥5 years), and examined factors associated with excess heart age. Materials and Methods: Data were analyzed in 2017 from 2009 to 2014 Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS). To calculate heart age we used maternal age, prepregnancy body mass index, systolic blood pressure, smoking status, and diabetic status. Weighted prevalence and prevalence ratios compared the likelihood of excess heart age across racial/ethnic groups by selected factors. Results: Prevalence of excess heart age was higher in non-Hispanic black women (11.8%) than non-Hispanic white women (7.3%, prevalence ratio [PR], 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.62, 1.49-1.76) and Hispanic women (4.9%, PR, 95% CI: 2.39, 2.10-2.72). Prevalence of excess heart age was highest among women who were without health insurance, obese or overweight, engaged in physical activity less than thrice per week, or were smokers in the prepregnancy period. Among women with less than high school education, non-Hispanic black women had a higher prevalence of excess heart age than Hispanic women (PR, 95% CI: 4.01, 3.15-5.10). Conclusions: Excess heart age may be an important tool for decreasing disparities and encouraging CVD risk reduction among certain groups of women.

Long-term exposure to airborne particulate matter of 1 μm or less and blood pressure in healthy young adults: A national study with 1.2 million pregnancy planners

No evidence exists concerning the effect of airborne particulate matter of 1 μm or less (PM₁) on blood pressure of young adults planning for pregnancy. We collected health examination information of about 1.2 million couples (aged 18-45 years) from a national birth cohort in China from Jan 1, 2013 to Oct 1, 2014 and matched their home address to daily PM₁ and PM_2.5 concentrations, which were predicted by remote sensing information. Generalized additive mixed models were used to analyze associations between long-term exposure to PM and blood pressure, after controlling for individual factors. A 10 μg/m³ increase in PM₁ was associated with increased systolic blood pressure (SBP) for 0.26 (95%CI: 0.24, 0.29) mmHg in females and 0.29 (95%CI: 0.26, 0.31) mmHg in males, respectively. PM₁ was also associated with increased DBP for 0.22 (95%CI: 0.20, 0.23) mmHg in females and 0.17 (95%CI: 0.15, 0.19) mmHg in males, respectively. Similar effects on blood pressure were found for PM_2.5, meanwhile, the effect of PM_2.5 on SBP increased with the scale of PM₁ included in PM_2.5 (p for interaction term <0.01). In summary, long-term exposure to PM₁ as well as PM_2.5 was associated with increased SBP and DBP of Chinese young adults planning for pregnancy.

Preconception blood pressure and risk of gestational hypertension and preeclampsia: a large cohort study in China

Our objective was to examine whether high blood pressure in the preconception period was associated with gestational hypertension and preeclampsia in Chinese women. Data were obtained from the China-US Collaborative Project for Neural Tube Defects Prevention, a large population-based cohort study. We included 45,628 women who were registered before pregnancy in seven counties in South China. Blood pressure was measured during registration by trained health care workers, and other health-related information was recorded prospectively. We used logistic regression to evaluate the associations between preconception blood pressure and the risk of gestational hypertension and preeclampsia, adjusting for potential confounders. The prevalence of hypertension in the preconception study population was 4.57% (2083/45,628). The incidences of gestational hypertension and preeclampsia were 11.95% and 4.08%, respectively, in the hypertension group and 8.60% and 2.28%, respectively, in the nonhypertension group. Compared with the nonhypertension group, the hypertension group showed a significantly increased risk for gestational hypertension [adjusted risk ratio (RR) = 1.40, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.22-1.60] and preeclampsia [adjusted RR = 1.75, 95% CI: 1.39-2.19]. When participants with normal blood pressure were used as the reference, the adjusted ORs for gestational hypertension were 1.48 (95% CI: 1.37-1.59), 1.70 (95% CI: 1.44-2.01), and 1.29 (95% CI: 1.02-1.64), and for preeclampsia, the adjusted ORs were 1.55 (95% CI: 1.35-1.78), 1.95 (95% CI: 1.46-2.60), and 1.99 (95% CI: 1.39-2.85) for the participants with prehypertension, stage 1 hypertension, and stage 2 hypertension, respectively. Our results support an association between hypertension or higher blood pressure prior to pregnancy and an increased risk of gestational hypertension and preeclampsia.

Lipid levels after childbirth and association with number of children: A population-based cohort study

OBJECTIVE

Low parity women are at increased risk of cardiovascular mortality. Unfavourable lipid profiles have been found in one-child mothers years before they conceive. However, it remains unclear whether unfavourable lipid profiles are evident in these women also after their first birth. The aim was to estimate post-pregnancy lipid levels in one-child mothers compared to mothers with two or more children and to assess these lipid's associations with number of children.

METHODS

We used data on 32 618 parous women (4 490 one-child mothers and 28 128 women with ≥2 children) examined after first childbirth as part of Cohort of Norway (1994-2003) with linked data on reproduction and number of children from the Medical Birth Registry of Norway (1967-2008). Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for one lifetime pregnancy (vs. ≥2 pregnancies) by lipid quintiles were obtained by logistic regression and adjusted for age at examination, year of first birth, body mass index, oral contraceptive use, smoking and educational level.

RESULTS

Compared to women with the lowest quintiles, ORs for one lifetime pregnancy for the highest quintiles of LDL and total cholesterol were 1.30 (95%CI: 1.14-1.45) and 1.43 (95%CI: 1.27-1.61), respectively. Sensitivity analysis (women <40 years) showed no appreciable change in our results. In stratified analyses, estimates were slightly stronger in overweight/obese, physically inactive and women with self-perceived bad health.

CONCLUSIONS

Mean lipid levels measured after childbirth in women with one child were significantly higher compared to mothers with two or more children and were associated with higher probability of having only one child. These findings corroborate an association between serum lipid levels and one lifetime pregnancy (as a feature of subfecundity), emphasizing that these particular women may be a specific predetermined risk group for cardiovascular related disease and death.

The two-stage placental model of preeclampsia: An update

Early-onset preeclampsia has been linked to poor placentation and fetal growth restriction, whereas late-onset preeclampsia was suggested to result from maternal factors. We have proposed an alternative model, suggesting that both early- and late-onset preeclampsia result from placental syncytiotrophoblast stress. This stress represents a common endpoint of several Stage 1 processes, promoting the clinical stage 2 of preeclampsia (new-onset hypertension and proteinuria or other signs of end-organ dysfunction), but the causes and timing of placental malperfusion differ. We have suggested that late-onset preeclampsia, without evidence of poor spiral artery remodelling, may be secondary to intraplacental (intervillous) malperfusion due to mechanical restrictions. As the growing placenta reaches its size limit, malperfusion and hypoxia occurs. This latter pathway reflects what is observed in postmature or multiple pregnancies. Our revised two-stage model accommodates most risk factors for preeclampsia including primiparity, chronic pre-pregnancy disease (e.g. obesity, diabetic-, chronic hypertensive-, and some autoimmune diseases), and pregnancy risk factors (e.g. multiple or molar pregnancies, gestational diabetes or hypertension, and low circulating Placental Growth Factor). These factors may increase the risk of progressing to the second stage of preeclampsia (both early- and late-onset) by affecting one of or both pathways leading to Stage 1, as well as potentially accelerating the steps towards Stage 2, including priming the maternal cardiovascular susceptibility to inflammatory factors shed by the placenta. This paper reviews previous preeclampsia findings and concepts, which fit with the revised two-stage model, and argues that "maternal" preeclampsia does not exist, as all preeclampsia requires a placenta.

Preeclampsia: The Relationship between Uterine Artery Blood Flow and Trophoblast Function

Maternal uterine artery blood flow is critical to maintaining the intrauterine environment, permitting normal placental function, and supporting fetal growth. It has long been believed that inadequate transformation of the maternal uterine vasculature is a consequence of primary defective trophoblast invasion and leads to the development of preeclampsia. That early pregnancy maternal uterine artery perfusion is strongly associated with placental cellular function and behaviour has always been interpreted in this context. Consistently observed changes in pre-conceptual maternal and uterine artery blood flow, abdominal pregnancy implantation, and late pregnancy have been challenging this concept, and suggest that abnormal placental perfusion may result in trophoblast impairment, rather than the other way round. This review focuses on evidence that maternal cardiovascular function plays a significant role in the pathophysiology of preeclampsia.

Gestational hypertensive disorders show unique patterns of circulatory deterioration with ongoing pregnancy

A combined assessment of heart, arteries, veins, and body fluid content throughout pregnancy has not yet been reported. We hypothesized that a gradual aggravation of circulatory dysfunction exists from the latent to the clinical phase of gestational hypertensive disease (GHD), and that pathways are unique for preeclampsia with early onset < 34 wk (EPE) and late onset ≥ 34 wk (LPE), and gestational hypertension (GH). Women with singleton pregnancy and no known diseases were invited for a prospective, observational study and had standardized sphygmomanometric blood pressure measurement, bioimpedance body water spectrum analysis, impedance cardiography for cardiac and arterial assessment, and combined Doppler-ECG of hepatic and renal interlobar veins and uterine arteries. Outcome was categorized as uncomplicated (UP, n = 1,700), EPE ( n = 87), LPE ( n = 218), or GH ( n = 188). A linear mixed model for repeated measurements, corrected for age, parity, and body mass index, was employed in SAS 9.4 to analyze trimestral changes within and between groups. From the first to the third trimester, body water increased in all groups, and an increasing number of abnormal parameters relative to UP occurred in all GHD. First-trimester blood pressure and peripheral resistance were higher in GHD than UP, together with increased uterine flow resistance and extracellular water in EPE, and with lower heart rate and aorta flow velocity in LPE. An overall gestational rise of body water volumes coexists with a gradual worsening of cardiovascular dysfunction in GHD, of which pathophysiological pathways are unique for EPE, LPE, and GH, respectively.

Investigation of elevation as a risk factor for hypertensive disorders of pregnancy among Colorado women between 2007 and 2015

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study is to determine the association between high elevation and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP).

METHODS

Retrospective cohort study using Colorado birth certificate data to compare HDP at high (≥8,000 ft), moderate (4,501-7,999 ft), or low (≤4,500 ft) elevation using logistic regression.

RESULTS

Among the cohort (n = 314,431), 3.4% of women developed a HDP. High or moderate elevation was not significantly associated with HDP relative to low elevation (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.16, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.93-1.43; aOR 1.14, 95% CI 0.98-1.31, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Women living at high or moderate elevation do not have higher odds of HDP.

Pre-pregnancy cardiovascular risk factors and racial disparities in birth outcomes: the Bogalusa Heart Study

BACKGROUND

Racial disparities in birth outcomes are mirrored in cardiovascular health. Recently there have been calls for more attention to preconception and interconceptional health in order to improve birth outcomes, including as a strategy to reduce black-white disparities.

METHODS

As part of a larger study of cardiovascular and reproductive health ("Bogalusa Babies"), female participants were linked to their children's birth certificates for Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas births from 1982 to 2009. Three thousand and ninety-five women were linked to birth certificate data. Birth outcomes were defined as low birthweight (LBW) birthweight < 2500 g; preterm birth (PTB), > 3 weeks early; small for gestational age (SGA), <10th percentile for gestational age (percentiles based on study population); large for gestational age (LGA) >90th percentile for gestational age]. Cardiovascular measures (blood pressure, lipids, glucose, insulin) at the visit closest in time but prior to the pregnancy was examined as predictors of birth outcomes using logistic models adjusted for covariates.

RESULTS

Only a few cardiovascular risk factors were associated with birth outcomes. Triglycerides were associated with higher risk of LBW among whites (aOR 1.05, 95% 1.01-1.10). Higher glucose was associated with a reduction in risk of SGA for black women (aOR 0.85, 95% CI 0.76-0.95), but not whites (p for interaction = 0.02). Clear racial disparities were found, but they were reduced modestly (LBW/SGA) or not at all (PTB/LGA) after CVD risk factors were adjusted for.

CONCLUSIONS

This analysis does not provide evidence for preconception cardiovascular risk being a strong contributor to racial disparities.

Women's prepregnancy lipid levels and number of children: a Norwegian prospective population-based cohort study

OBJECTIVE

To study prepregnancy serum lipid levels and the association with the number of children.

DESIGN

Prospective, population-based cohort.

SETTING

Linked data from the Cohort of Norway and the Medical Birth Registry of Norway.

PARTICIPANTS

2645 women giving birth to their first child during 1994-2003 (488 one-child mothers and 2157 women with ≥2 births) and 1677 nulliparous women.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

ORs for no and one lifetime pregnancy (relative to ≥2 pregnancies) obtained by multinomial logistic regression, adjusted for age at examination, education, body mass index (BMI), smoking, time since last meal and oral contraceptive use.

RESULTS

Assessed in quintiles, higher prepregnant triglyceride (TG) and TG to high-density lipoprotein (TG:HDL-c) ratio levels were associated with increased risk of one lifetime pregnancy compared with having ≥2 children. Compared with the highest quintile, women in the lowest quintile of HDL cholesterol levels had an increased risk of one lifetime pregnancy (OR 1.7, 95% CI 1.2 to 2.4), as were women with the highest low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, TG and TG:HDL-c ratio quintiles (compared with the lowest) (OR 1.2, 95% CI 0.8 to 1.7; OR 2.2, 95% CI 1.5 to 3.2; and OR 2.2, 95% CI 1.5 to 3.2, respectively). Similar effects were found in women with BMI≥25 and the highest LDL and total cholesterol levels in risk of lifetime nulliparity.

CONCLUSION

Women with unfavourable prepregnant lipid profile had higher risk of having no or only one child. These findings substantiate an association between prepregnant serum lipid levels and number of children. Previously observed associations between low parity and increased cardiovascular mortality may in part be due to pre-existing cardiovascular disease lipid risk factors.

Pre-pregnancy blood pressure and body mass index trajectories and incident hypertensive disorders of pregnancy

There are few studies examining patterns in body mass index (BMI) and blood pressure (BP) and subsequent hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDPs). We examined the association of BMI (n = 1342) or BP (n = 2266) trajectories in the 5 years preceding birth with HDPs using adjusted logistic regression. Compared to normal-weight BMI and low-normal BP groups, membership to the overweight BMI group (OR: 2.95, 95%CI: 1.57-5.53, p = 0.001) and higher-normal (OR: 2.74, 95%CI:1.49-5.04, p = 0.001) and prehypertensive (OR:7.27, 95%CI: 3.29-16.06, p < 0.001) BP groups were associated with higher odds of HDPs. Our data suggest maintaining normal-weight and low-normal BP in the years preceding pregnancy may help avoid HDPs.

Cardiovascular origins of preeclampsia

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To review the current data on maternal cardiovascular adaptation in normal pregnancy and preeclampsia.

RECENT FINDINGS

Defective placentation causes early-onset preeclampsia, a disease entity that is considered more or less distinct from late-onset preeclampsia. The latter has been attributed as 'maternal' preeclampsia. There are inconsistencies with the placental origins hypothesis, especially when considering the lack of a causative association with abnormal placental histology or impaired fetal growth. An alternative explanation is that placental dysfunction is secondary to maternal cardiovascular maladaptation in pregnancy. The concept that placental dysfunction is secondary to a maternal disorder is not new when one considers the clinical similarities between preeclampsia and gestational diabetes - both pregnancy-specific conditions that are cured by birth. It is accepted that gestational diabetes develops when the maternal pancreas is unable to manage the increasing glucose load of pregnancy. It is now apparent that pregnancy presents a substantial cardiovascular load on the maternal heart, and that cardiovascular dysfunction precedes the disorder, predominates in the clinical syndrome and persists for several decades postpartum. It is time to consider the evidence that failure of the maternal cardiovascular system to adapt to pregnancy may well be the primary mechanism leading to secondary placental dysfunction in preeclampsia.

SUMMARY

Many of the existing paradoxes of preeclampsia challenge the placental origin hypothesis and are explained if one considered preeclampsia to be a cardiovascular syndrome.

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and subsequent maternal cardiovascular health

To examine associations between hypertensive pregnancy disorders and maternal cardiovascular disease (CVD) in later life. We examined the associations between blood pressure (BP) in pregnancy, gestational hypertension (GH) and preeclampsia (PE) with cardiovascular measurements 6 years after index pregnancy among 4912 women participating in the Generation R Study, the Netherlands. BP, left ventricular mass (LV mass), aortic root diameter (AOD), left atrial diameter, fractional shortening, and carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (PWV). Early pregnancy systolic and diastolic BP were associated with more adverse maternal cardiovascular measurements and a higher incidence of chronic hypertension 6 years after pregnancy. GH was associated with a higher BP, a higher PWV, a larger AOD and an increased LV mass 6 years after index pregnancy. Compared to previous normotensive pregnancies these women had a sixfold increased risk to develop chronic hypertension after pregnancy (OR 6.6, 95% CI 4.6-9.5). Compared to women with a normotensive pregnancy, women with PE had a higher BP and a higher risk of chronic hypertension (OR 4.5, 95% CI 2.6-7.8) at follow-up. After adjustment for BMI at follow-up in all the analyses on GH, PE and cardiovascular measurements, effect estimates attenuated up to 65%, but remained significant. Both GH and PE are associated with markers of adverse maternal cardiovascular health after pregnancy with an increased risk of chronic hypertension. Women with GH and PE may be offered long-term cardiovascular follow-up incorporated in CVD risk management guidelines.