Photo Credit: Svitlana Hulko

A retrospective observational study published in Medicina assessed the short- and long-term complications associated with preeclampsia. The researchers compared 98 women with preeclampsia to 137 without to evaluate maternal and neonatal outcomes. The study was conducted at a hospital in Timișoara, Romania (2015–2018). Women with preeclampsia were older and had higher BMIs, fewer prenatal visits, and greater family histories of hypertension, diabetes, and preeclampsia. Diagnostic markers included higher proteinuria, elevated sFlt-1, and reduced PlGF levels. Preeclampsia was associated with increased maternal complications such as eclampsia, HELLP syndrome, and acute kidney injury, as well as neonatal risks like preterm birth, low birth weight, and NICU admissions. Long-term, mothers faced higher rates of chronic hypertension, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, kidney issues, and mental health disorders, while children exhibited greater risks for neuropsychological delays, respiratory problems, behavioral disorders, learning difficulties, and recurrent infections. The study authors emphasized the need for early monitoring and personalized interventions to address the health impacts of preeclampsia on mothers and their children.