Risk Factors and Awareness of Preeclampsia Among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Care in Nasarawa State.

Abstract

Background: Preeclampsia remains a major contributor to maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality, particularly in low- and middle-income countries such as Nigeria, where the burden is disproportionately high. Despite increasing awareness, gaps persist in early detection, prevention, and context-specific evidence, especially in North-Central Nigeria, including Nasarawa State. This study examined risk factors associated with preeclampsia, antenatal care (ANC) patterns, and pregnant women's knowledge and attitudes toward preeclampsia in selected General Hospitals in Nasarawa State, Nigeria.

Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in selected General Hospitals in Nasarawa State. Data were collected using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire covering sociodemographic, obstetric, medical, lifestyle, and healthcare access characteristics, as well as knowledge and attitudes toward preeclampsia. Descriptive statistics summarized the variables, while inferential statistics examined associations between selected clinical risk factors and preeclampsia.

Results: A total of 423 pregnant women participated in the study. Most respondents were aged 30-49 years (60.1%) and multiparous (63.4%), with the majority residing in urban areas (88.7%) and having at least secondary education 71.9%. Early ANC initiation before 12 weeks of gestation was reported by 52.2% of participants. A history of chronic hypertension (10.9%) and diabetes mellitus was significantly associated with preeclampsia (χ ² = 66.829, p < 0.001 and χ ² = 423.000, p < 0.001, respectively). Knowledge of preeclampsia was high (85.3%), but attitudes were largely neutral (52.0%). Major barriers to ANC utilization included transportation costs (78%), long distance to health facilities (69%), and low health insurance coverage (22.9%). Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

Conclusion: Clinical risk factors, particularly chronic hypertension and diabetes mellitus, were significantly associated with preeclampsia. Although awareness was relatively high, neutral attitudes toward prevention suggest the need for strengthened health education, early identification of high-risk pregnancies, and improved access to ANC services.