New research suggests that cardiovascular complications are affecting a growing number of pregnancies, including among women with no prior history of heart disease. The study indicates that nearly one in seven pregnancies may involve heart-related health issues, highlighting a concerning rise in maternal cardiovascular risk.
The analysis reviewed more than 56,000 pregnancies recorded between 2001 and 2019 within the New England region. Published Monday in the journal Circulation, the findings show that close to 15% of pregnancies were complicated by serious cardiovascular conditions, including heart attacks, strokes, heart failure, blood clots, high blood pressure, and, in the most severe cases, maternal death.
Dr. Emily Lau, a cardiologist at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston and a member of the research team, described the trend as a growing public health concern. She noted that pregnancy represents a critical period for identifying and addressing cardiovascular risk. According to Lau, the findings underscore the need for prevention strategies that begin before conception and continue through pregnancy and the postpartum period.
Cardiovascular disease now accounts for more than one-third of maternal deaths, making it one of the leading causes of pregnancy-related mortality. The study tracked patients within the Mass General Brigham healthcare system and found that while women with existing health conditions faced the greatest increase in risk, rising rates of heart complications were observed across all age groups and health backgrounds.
Key Risk Factors on the Rise
Researchers identified a sharp increase in several cardiovascular risk factors among pregnant women over the study period:
- Obesity rose from 2% in 2001 to 16% in 2019
- High blood pressure increased from 3% to 12%
- High cholesterol levels climbed from 3% to 10%
- Diabetes grew from 1% to 3%
Dr. Stacey Rosen, volunteer president of the American Heart Association and senior vice president of women’s health at Northwell Health in New York, emphasized that many of these risks are preventable. She pointed out that lifestyle changes and appropriate medical treatment can significantly reduce cardiovascular risk, yet many women remain unaware of underlying conditions or their potential impact on pregnancy.
Rosen encouraged women planning to become pregnant to engage with healthcare providers early. She stressed the importance of understanding personal risk factors and taking proactive steps to improve heart health before conception.
She also highlighted the often-overlooked postpartum period, noting that cardiovascular risk does not end after delivery. According to Rosen, maintaining heart-healthy habits before, during, and after pregnancy can help reduce long-term cardiovascular disease risk and support overall maternal well-being.
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Health & Wellness Editorial Team
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