A new study has revealed that women who have had preeclampsia during pregnancy are more prone to having a heart attack or stroke within 7 years of giving birth, and even more so up to 20 years later. The researchers conducting the study suggest that interventions to prevent heart attacks or strokes in affected women should not wait until middle age.
Preeclampsia is a condition that can during pregnancy, and is marked by symptoms such as changes in vision, sudden weight gain, and breathing difficulties. Risk factors for preeclampsia include first time pregnancies, chronic high blood pressure, obesity, and diabetes. To reduce the risk of preeclampsia and subsequent risk of stroke and heart attack, pregnant women should optimize their health prior to pregnancy, incorporate healthy lifestyle interventions, and establish prenatal care early.
It is important to note that heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the United States, making this study particularly concerning. Women with preeclampsia can reduce their risk of heart attack and stroke later in life by having regular preventative care visits with their healthcare provider.
In conclusion, this study has revealed that women who have had preeclampsia during pregnancy are at higher risk of heart attack and stroke later in life, and should take preventive measures to reduce their risk. Pregnant women can lower their risk of preeclampsia by optimizing their health prior to pregnancy, incorporating healthy lifestyle interventions, and establishing prenatal care early. Women with preeclampsia can also reduce their risk of heart attack and stroke later in life by having regular preventative care visits with their healthcare provider.