Risk factors for eclampsia: a population-based study in Washington State, 1987-2007

We sought to investigate whether previously identified risk factors are associated with eclampsia in a contemporary, heterogeneous cohort of women.

Data were collected from birth certificate and hospital discharge records and used to conduct a population-based case-control study among women giving birth to singletons in Washington State from 1987 through 2007. We used multivariable logistic regression to estimate odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals. Multiple imputation procedures were used to address missing data.

Risk of eclampsia was greater in nulliparous compared to parous women. Being a young mother (< 20 years) or an older mother (≥ 35 years) were each associated with elevated eclampsia risk. Longer birth interval, low socioeconomic status, gestational diabetes, prepregnancy obesity, and weight gain during pregnancy above or below recommended guidelines were positively associated with eclampsia. Multiparity and smoking were inversely associated with eclampsia risk.

Exposures identified more than a decade ago continue to be associated with eclampsia in contemporary birth cohorts.