Blood pressure survey of Zambian primigravidae

The systolic and diastolic blood pressures during pregnancy of 146 Zambian primigravidae between the ages of 15 and 19 were recorded. A control group consisted of non-pregnant school girls of similar ages. Upon comparison of the compiled data, both the systolic and diastolic blood pressures of the primigravidae were found to be significantly lower than those of the non-pregnant school girls. Differences in social circumstances, body weight and the pregnancy itself may explain these results. During the third trimester of the pregnancies the systolic and diastolic blood pressure did not rise. Factors that can contribute to the prevalence of pre-eclampsia are discussed. The prevalence of pre-eclampsia in Nchelenge District, Zambia, seemed to be relatively low.