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Hypertension in pregnancy: an emerging risk factor for cardiovascular disease

Vesna D Garovic1, Suzanne R Hayman

  • 1Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, 200 First Street South West, Rochester, MN 55905, USA. garovic.vesna@mayo.edu

Nature Clinical Practice. Nephrology
|October 25, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Hypertension during pregnancy significantly increases a woman's long-term risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Early screening and monitoring for CVD risk factors are crucial for women with a history of hypertensive pregnancies.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Health
  • Obstetrics
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Hypertension in pregnancy is an emerging risk factor for future cardiovascular disease (CVD).
  • Women with hypertensive pregnancies face higher risks of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events.
  • Shared risk factors and potential long-term vascular changes link hypertensive disorders of pregnancy to CVD.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the under-recognized link between hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and long-term cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk.
  • To emphasize the need for risk assessment and management strategies for affected women.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing evidence on the association between hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and CVD.
  • Analysis of shared risk factors and potential pathophysiological mechanisms.
  • Evaluation of current guidelines for risk-reduction interventions.

Main Results:

  • Women with a history of hypertension during pregnancy exhibit an increased CVD risk profile years later.
  • Common risk factors (obesity, diabetes, renal disease) and induced vascular abnormalities may contribute to this increased risk.
  • Limited evidence exists for specific risk-reduction interventions post-hypertensive pregnancy.

Conclusions:

  • Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy should be integrated into CVD risk assessments.
  • Close monitoring and management of conventional CVD risk factors are essential for women with a history of hypertensive pregnancies.
  • Adherence to evidence-based national guidelines for CVD risk management is recommended.

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