Placental morphology and the prediction of underlying cardiovascular risk factors | Aida Zaza
Summary :
Pre-eclampsia is associated with an increased risk of future cardiovascular disease. Maladaptive placentation or malperfusion, as well as predisposing cardiovascular or metabolic risk for endothelial dysfunction, contribute to the systemic inflammatory response that establishes the origins of the disease. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between placental size and cardiovascular risk when assessed at six months postpartum in women who experienced pre-eclampsia.Maternal clinical and biochemical cardiovascular risk factors were used to categorize preeclamptic women into high vs. low lifetime cardiovascular disease risk profiles at six months postpartum. A multivariable logistic regression model was then used to identify the association between placental weight to birth weight ratio and high lifetime cardiovascular disease risk, adjusting for maternal age, pre-pregnancy BMI, and severity of pre-eclampsia. A p-value of < 0.05 was deemed statistically significant.
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.
