Hypertension during Pregnancy Increaces Risk of Heart Disease

Women who developed hypertension during pregnancy are at higher risk of heart disease later in life. A Dutch study of 491 post-menopausal women suggests, that such women should be carefully monitored for cardiovascular risk factors.

The study found that women who reported high blood pressure during pregnancy had a 57% higher risk of calcium building up in their arteries. This hardening of the arteries increases the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Dr. Michiel L. Bots, associate professor of Epidemiology at the Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care in Utrecht, said the study has implications for the management of women who suffer from hypertension during pregnancy.

 
It is important to note, that the higher risk was observed not only in women who developed preeclampsia, but also in those with high blood pressure. Researchers say, that physicians and women should be aware of the risk, and be more carefull about exercise, wieght and a healthy diet.

The findings were published in the Journal of Hypertension.