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Cardiometabolic Risk Factors in Pregnancy and Implications for Long-Term Health: Identifying the Research Priorities for Low-Resource Settings

Published version
Peer-reviewed

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Authors

Nagraj, Shobhana 
Kennedy, Stephen H. 
Norton, Robyn 
Jha, Vivekananda 
Praveen, Devarsetty 

Abstract

Cardiometabolic disorders (CMDs), including ischemic heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes are the leading causes of mortality and morbidity in women worldwide. The burden of CMDs falls disproportionately on low and middle-income countries (LMICs), placing substantial demands on already pressured health systems. Cardiometabolic disorders may present up to a decade earlier in some LMIC settings, and are associated with high-case fatality rates. Early identification and ongoing postpartum follow-up of women with pregnancy complications such as hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDPs), and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) may offer opportunities for prevention, or help delay onset of CMDs. This mini-review paper presents an overview of the key challenges faced in the early identification, referral and management of pregnant women at increased risk of CMDs, in low-resource settings worldwide. Evidence-based strategies, including novel diagnostics, technology and innovations for early detection, screening and management for pregnant women at high-risk of CMDs are presented. The review highlights the key research priorities for addressing cardiometabolic risk in pregnancy in low-resource settings.

Description

Keywords

Cardiovascular Medicine, high-risk pregnancy, preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, cardiometabolic disorders, cardiovascular disease

Journal Title

Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine

Conference Name

Journal ISSN

2297-055X

Volume Title

7

Publisher

Frontiers Media S.A.