Placental morphology and the prediction of underlying cardiovascular risk | Aida Zaza
Summary :
186/216 women with pre-eclampsia who attended the Maternal Health Clinic met inclusion criteria. No significant differences were observed for placental morphometric measurements between women who screened as having a high vs. low lifetime risk profile for cardiovascular disease at six months postpartum. However, using multivariable modelling that controlled for maternal age, prepregnancy body mass index, gestational age at delivery, and severity of pre-eclampsia, a low placenta to birth weight ratio (<15%) was associated with an increased odds of high lifetime cardiovascular disease risk (p < 0.009).
About Author :
I’m a medical student studying at Trinity College Dublin and have achieved an Honours Bachelor of Health Sciences and MSc in Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, specializing in the field of Reproduction and Developmental Sciences. For my thesis, I studied the relationship between placental morphology and underlying cardiovascular risk factors in women diagnosed with pre-eclampsia. Our study identified a powerful screening tool for cardiovascular risk at the time of delivery, allowing clinicians to initiate postpartum interventions as most of these women are dealing with preventable health challenges. My research/volunteer experiences have taught me the importance of complementing the medical profession with patient-centered care by advocating for the needs of individuals who are unable to afford or access the healthcare they deserve.
