FDA Approves Blood Test for Early Detection of Preeclampsia During Pregnancy
The Food and Drug Administration of the US approved a blood test to identify a heightened risk of preeclampsia in pregnant women, a major contributor to maternal disability and mortality.
Specifically designed for expectant mothers hospitalised with blood pressure disorders between their 23rd and 35th weeks of pregnancy, the test offers an impressive accuracy rate of up to 96%.
The test can identify potential patients with suggestive symptoms who may develop the condition within the span of two weeks. Around two-thirds of women who receive a positive result are likely to develop severe preeclampsia, which may necessitate an early delivery of their babies.
It is important to note that it can rapidly progress and manifest without easily identifiable warning signs, making it challenging to detect without accurate testing methods. The mom-to-be can feel perfectly healthy and have normal liver and kidney function, but within a day or two, their organs can fail, and they may experience brain swelling and seizures.
Black women in the United States have much higher rates than white women, and they are three times as likely as white women to suffer kidney damage or death from this condition. Black women also face a higher likelihood of experiencing fetal loss.
The occurrence rates across India vary considerably. While preeclampsia affects around 5% to 15% of expectant mothers, the incidence of eclampsia stands at about 1.5%.
The new blood test represents a significant leap forward in improving maternal healthcare. It provides an accurate and efficient way to identify high-risk pregnancies, particularly those with suggestive symptoms. The availability of this test can help ensure better maternal health outcomes for all soon-to-be mothers.
