Women with Lupus with Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy are Twice at Risk for Cardiovascular Events
A new study found that women with lupus who experience a hypertensive disorder (high blood pressure disorders such as preeclampsia, eclampsia, gestational and chronic hypertension) in pregnancy are at twice the risk of heart or cardiovascular disease (CVD).
Researchers compared the first delivery records of women with lupus and healthy women. Analysis revealed 20% of women with lupus exhibited a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy (HDP) while only 7% of healthy women did. Women with lupus were twice as likely to develop a heart-related outcome after pregnancy, including stroke, heart attack and transient ischemic attacks (loss of blood flow in the brain, spinal cord or retina), and were three-times likely to develop hypertension. Overall, women with lupus and HDP had greater hypertension incidence later in life.
Premature CVD, including stroke, is a common complication in women with lupus. Women who are contemplating pregnancy should speak with their physician. Women who are pregnant should be monitored closely and speak with their physician about treatment to lower risk. Learn about planning a pregnancy when you have lupus.