Physician's Knowledge and Practices Surrounding Low-Dose Aspirin for Preeclampsia Risk Reduction

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Maternal-Fetal Medicine
• Preventive Medicine

Background:

• Preeclampsia is a major cause of maternal mortality, with up to 60% of related deaths being preventable.
• Low-dose aspirin has demonstrated efficacy in reducing preeclampsia incidence by up to 30% in at-risk populations.
• Professional guidelines since 2014 recommend low-dose aspirin for preeclampsia risk reduction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess physician knowledge and current practices regarding low-dose aspirin for preeclampsia risk reduction.
• To identify discrepancies between established guidelines and clinical application of aspirin prophylaxis.
• To inform strategies for improving the uptake of evidence-based preeclampsia prevention.

Main Methods:

• An anonymous electronic survey was distributed to prenatal care providers in the Rio Grande Valley, Texas.
• The survey included 20 items covering physician demographics, practices, and knowledge of aspirin for preeclampsia.
• Data were collected from 48 physicians, yielding a 55% response rate.

Main Results:

• Over 90% of physicians reported recommending low-dose aspirin, with 98% correctly identifying the dose.
• While 83% initiated aspirin between 12-16 weeks, only 52% continued it until delivery.
• Approximately 80% recognized one high-risk factor as an indication, but only 56% identified two or more moderate risk factors.

Conclusions:

• Physician knowledge and practices regarding low-dose aspirin for preeclampsia show significant gaps despite existing guidelines.
• Improved screening tools and targeted medical education are necessary to optimize aspirin use for prevention.
• Enhancing adherence to guidelines is crucial for reducing adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes associated with preeclampsia.