Hypertensive pregnancy disorders complicate up to 10% of pregnancies worldwide, constituting one of the most significant causes of maternal morbidity and mortality. Hypertensive diseases, specifically gestational hypertension, chronic hypertension, and preeclampsia, throughout pregnancy are contributors to the top causes of maternal mortality in the US. Moreover, the research has identified a strong link between the prevalence of maternal hypertensive disorders and racial and ethnic disparities. Factors that influence the prevalence of maternal hypertensive disorders among racially and ethnically diverse women include maternal age, level of education, United States-born status, nonmetropolitan residence, prepregnancy obesity, excess weight gain during pregnancy, and gestational diabetes. Examining the factors that increase the risk for maternal hypertensive disorders and the current interventions utilized to manage hypertensive disorders will assist in identifying gaps in prevention and treatment strategies and implications for future practice. Specific focus will be placed on disparities among racially and ethnically diverse women that increase the risk for maternal hypertensive disorders. This review will promote the development of interventions and strategies that better address and prevent hypertensive disorders throughout a pregnant woman’s continuum of care.
Reference: https://www.hindawi.com/journals/jp/2020/7864816/
