Pallavi Mehra • 26 Nov 2024
Gestational Diabetes And Hypertension Are Increasing Pregnancy Complications In Illinois, Says Study
Gestational Diabetes And Hypertension Are Increasing Pregnancy Complications In Illinois, Says Study (Image Credits: iStock)
A new study highlights an alarming rise in maternal health problems and birth complications in Illinois, driven by chronic health conditions like high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, and obesity. These findings reveal significant racial and economic disparities, underscoring the urgent need for targeted interventions to improve maternal health outcomes.
The research, published in the December issue of Obstetrics and Gynecology Open, analyzed over 988,000 births across 127 Illinois hospitals from January 2016 to June 2023. The study found that worsening pre-pregnancy health among reproductive-age women is a key factor in deteriorating maternal outcomes.
The study revealed the following trends:
- Severe Maternal Illness: Rates increased from 1.4 per cent to 2 per cent.
- Obesity: Rates tripled, from 7.8 per cent in 2016 to 22.3 per cent in 2023.
- Delivery Complications: Vaginal delivery complications rose by 22.4 per cent, while cesarean birth complications surged by 48.9 per cent.
- Chronic Conditions: Instances of gestational diabetes (4.2 per cent to 5 per cent), depression (2.5 per cent to 6.6 per cent), anxiety (3.1 per cent to 10.4 per cent), and other chronic illnesses (4.7 per cent to 7.5 per cent) also increased.
- Impact on Younger Moms: Chronic conditions were not limited to older mothers, with rising rates among those under 30.
The research shows a significant racial and economic gap in maternal health. Black mothers experienced more than double the rate of severe complications compared to white mothers. Women from impoverished neighbourhoods faced higher risks of maternal health problems, regardless of race.
“These findings reflect the critical role of social determinants of health, such as race and income, in driving disparities,” said co-author Dr Lynn Yee, an associate professor at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. “Efforts to reduce maternal morbidity must address racial inequalities and economic hardship.”
How To Reduce Pregnancy Risks?
Experts emphasized the importance of addressing pre-pregnancy health to mitigate complications. Women planning to conceive should undergo screening and manage chronic conditions before pregnancy. “Pre-conception counselling is vital to optimizing health conditions prior to pregnancy,” said Dr Mugdha Mokashi, the study’s lead author.
In addition to individual care, policy changes at the local, state, and federal levels are essential to improve maternal and infant outcomes. These include:
- Expanding Access to Doulas: Trained childbirth professionals can provide emotional and physical support to mothers during labour.
- Patient Navigator Programs: These initiatives help mothers access healthcare and resources more effectively.
- Addressing Poverty: Policies to alleviate economic hardship can reduce maternal health disparities.
- Improving Quality of Care: Enhanced healthcare standards for mothers and babies can help reduce complications.
Lifestyle Changes for Expectant Mothers
To reduce the risk of complications, women should consider the following steps:
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Adopting a balanced diet and regular exercise can lower obesity-related risks.
- Manage Chronic Conditions: Monitor and treat conditions like hypertension and diabetes under medical guidance.
- Seek Preconception Counseling: Work with healthcare providers to assess and address health concerns before pregnancy.
- Access Support Networks: Leverage resources like community health programs, support groups, and trained doulas.
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