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Review
. 2024 Jun;26(6):247-258.
doi: 10.1007/s11906-024-01299-z. Epub 2024 Mar 21.

The Role of Obesity in the Development of Preeclampsia

Miguel Javier Schiavone  1 , Mariana Paula Pérez  2 , Analía Aquieri  3 , Daniela Nosetto  4 , María Victoria Pronotti  4 , María Mazzei  4 , Cyntia Kudrle  4 , Horacio Avaca  4
Affiliations
Review

The Role of Obesity in the Development of Preeclampsia

Miguel Javier Schiavone et al. Curr Hypertens Rep. 2024 Jun.

Abstract

Purpose of review: This comprehensive review provides an in-depth exploration of the complex relationship between obesity and preeclampsia (PE) and emphasizes the clinical implications of this association. It highlights the crucial role of screening tools in assessing individual risk and determining the need for additional antenatal care among women with obesity. The review investigates various markers for identifying the risk of developing PE, while emphasizing the significance of interventions such as exercise, weight management, and a balanced diet in reducing the incidence of preeclampsia and improving outcomes for both mother and fetus.

Recent findings: Actually, there is a global pandemic of obesity, particularly among women of childbearing age and pregnant women. PE, which is characterized by maternal hypertension, proteinuria, and complications, affects 2-4% of pregnancies worldwide, posing significant risks to maternal and perinatal health. Women with obesity face an elevated risk of developing PE due to the systemic inflammation resulting from excess adiposity, which can adversely affect placental development. Adipose tissue, rich in proinflammatory cytokines and complement proteins, contributes to the pathogenesis of PE by promoting the expression of antiangiogenic factors in the mother. This review emphasizes the need for appropriate screening, interventions, and a holistic approach to reduce the incidence of preeclampsia and enhance maternal-fetal well-being, thus providing valuable insights into the multifaceted association between obesity and PE.

Keywords: Interventions; Obesity; Preeclampsia; Proinflammatory cytokines; Screening tools.

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References

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