Risk factor profile associated with pre-eclampsia: a cross-sectional observational study.

Abstract

Preeclampsia remains a significant cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. The present study aimed to identify and quantify risk factors associated with pre-eclampsia, as well as to evaluate prophylactic strategies and maternal and neonatal outcomes in pregnant women monitored in the municipality of Paraíso do Tocantins. This is a cross-sectional observational study, conducted through a retrospective analysis of the medical records of 32 pregnant women diagnosed with pre-eclampsia between 2022 and 2024. Sociodemographic, clinical, and obstetric characteristics, use of prophylaxis with acetylsalicylic acid and calcium, as well as maternal and perinatal outcomes were evaluated. The average age of the participants was 31.5 ± 6.5 years, with a predominance of overweight and obesity (mean BMI of 33.3 ± 8.0 kg/m²). A high frequency of risk factors was observed, such as a personal history of pre-eclampsia, previous hypertension, and diabetes mellitus. Serious complications, including eclampsia, HELLP syndrome, intensive care unit admission, and fetal death, were reported. Inappropriate use or absence of acetylsalicylic acid was associated with worse maternal-fetal outcomes (p=0.015). The findings reinforce the importance of early identification of risk factors and proper implementation of prophylactic measures during prenatal care.