Each year, preeclampsia-related complications claim the lives of over 76,000 mothers and 500,000 babies worldwide. This condition, characterized by high blood pressure during pregnancy, is a "silent threat" that can lead to fatal outcomes if not diagnosed in a timely manner.
In Paraguay, preeclampsia is also cited as one of the main causes of maternal mortality. Accordingly, on May 23rd, San Pablo Mother and Child General Hospital held an important awareness event on preeclampsia, raising awareness of the severity of the disease and emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and prevention.
Preeclampsia Awareness Month: Paraguay's Efforts
This event, held in observance of "Preeclampsia Awareness Month," aimed to provide information about the disease, promote prevention, and strengthen clinical capabilities across the healthcare system. The event, which began at 8:20 AM with opening remarks by Dr. Vicente Vega, Medical Director of the hospital, highlighted its importance with Dr. Vega's statement: "Our country needs more spaces for cooperation to confront the serious threat to maternal health."
Dr. Jorge Santos, Head of the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, emphasized the essential role of prenatal care, asserting, "Every woman should receive prenatal care as soon as she becomes aware of her pregnancy. Preeclampsia prevention begins here."
Several stakeholders attended the event, reiterating the importance of early diagnosis and integrated support. Attorney Patricia Abed, Executive Director of the Rassmuss Foundation (Fundación Rassmuss), reaffirmed her commitment to collaborating with the Ministry of Public Health and Social Welfare for safer deliveries. Additionally, Myrian Espínola, Head of Obstetrics and Gynecology, emphasized the pivotal role of obstetrics and gynecology staff in the preventive cycle.
In the technology sector, Dr. Cynthia Díaz, Director of Sexual and Reproductive Health, expressed gratitude to all participants and urged continuous encouragement of respectful and quality maternal care. Finally, Dr. Liliana Vera, the hospital's Chief Resident, concluded the event by advocating for the collective responsibility of all healthcare professionals in supporting pregnant women.
As part of the event, nursing students engaged in awareness-raising activities, delivering messages to the community about recognizing the warning signs of preeclampsia and emphasizing the need for regular prenatal check-ups.
Preeclampsia: Why Emphasize Prevention?
Preeclampsia can appear during pregnancy or up to six weeks postpartum. While it doesn't always present with obvious symptoms, regular medical follow-ups can detect risk factors and, in some cases, initiate preventive treatment. At the event, experts repeatedly emphasized that "early diagnosis and appropriate follow-up can prevent the disease from progressing to severe forms."
Most preeclampsia-related deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries, where many women often do not receive timely prenatal care. Paraguay is no exception. Therefore, both the public and private sectors continue to emphasize community education and equitable access to healthcare services.
Understanding Preeclampsia and the Importance of Prevention
Preeclampsia is a condition characterized by high blood pressure and proteinuria that occurs after 20 weeks of pregnancy. Some studies indicate placental dysfunction as the cause. If the placenta does not develop properly, leading to inadequate blood supply, the placenta may secrete vasoconstrictive substances, causing the mother's blood pressure to rise and affecting kidney function, resulting in proteinuria.
Key symptoms include: severe headaches, blurred vision or flashing lights, abdominal pain (primarily in the upper abdomen), severe swelling of the hands, feet, and face, and sudden weight gain. However, these symptoms can be confused with general pregnancy symptoms, necessitating greater caution.
If preeclampsia worsens, it can progress to eclampsia, which involves seizures and is a life-threatening emergency for both mother and fetus. It can also lead to severe complications such as HELLP syndrome (Hemolysis, Elevated Liver enzymes, Low Platelets). For the fetus, there is an increased risk of growth restriction, premature birth, and fetal death.
Risk factors for preeclampsia include: first pregnancy, multiple pregnancy (twins, etc.), obesity, chronic hypertension, diabetes, kidney disease, autoimmune diseases like lupus, and a family history of preeclampsia or a history in previous pregnancies. Pregnant women with these risk factors require even more thorough prenatal care.
Prevention relies on early diagnosis and regular prenatal check-ups. During each visit, doctors measure blood pressure, check for proteinuria through urine tests, and, if necessary, conduct blood tests to assess kidney and liver function, platelet count, and more. Certain preventive treatments, such as low-dose aspirin therapy, may be applied to specific high-risk pregnant women, and calcium supplementation is also known to be somewhat helpful.
Preeclampsia is a condition where most severe complications can be prevented if it is detected and managed early. Therefore, all pregnant women should recognize the importance of prenatal care and pay close attention to changes in their bodies. When active education and support from healthcare institutions and communities are combined, we can reduce tragedies caused by preeclampsia and ensure a healthy future for all mothers and babies.
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