Abstract:
Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) represent a group of conditions associated with high blood pressure, proteinuria, and in some cases convulsions during pregnancy. HDP is one of the leading causes of maternal and perinatal mortality and morbidity, especially in low resource settings. In addition, women with HDP are also at high risk of developing heart disease, stroke, and hypertension.
Objective:To assess prevalence and factors associated with HDP among pregnant women attending maternal care service at public hospitals in Dire Dawa and Harar cities,June-1to 30, 2020
Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among randomly selected women seeking care during pregnancy in two public hospitals (Dire Dawa and Harar: Dil Chora and Hiwot Fana Specialized University Hospital). Data on sociodemographic characteristics, reproductive and obstetric conditions, and HDP related information were collected using face to face interview complemented with document review and anthropometric measurment. Data were checked for completeness and entered into EpiData 3.1 and then exported to SPSS 23 for analysis. Descriptive statistics of participants was computed. Binary and multiple logistic regression analysis with a 95% confidence interval (CI) were employed to identify factors associated with HDP. P-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results: Of a total 726 women, 23.4% of women had HDP, majority of which was pre-eclampsia (67%), followed by chronic hypertension (17.6%). HDP was more likely among rural residents (AOR=1.81; 95% 1.11– 2.95) those who drink coffee (AOR = 2.73; 95% CI:1.80-4.14), did not often have intake of fruits (AOR=2.33; 95% CI:1.47-3.69), have limited physical activity, (AOR=2.89; 95% CI:1.13-7.37), had family history of hypertension (AOR:3.56; 95% CI:2.11-6.03), had family history diabetes mellitus (AOR: 1.98; 95% CI:1.01-3.87), and gestational age <37 weeks (AOR = 1.69; 95% CI: 1.11-2.56).
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Conclusion: Almost one out of four pregnant women had HDP. Pregnant women with limited exercise and had no fruit intake, often intake coffee, and with history of hypertension and diabetes should be screened for risk of HDP.
