CARE
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Cardiovascular Awareness and Risk Education after Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy and Gestational Diabetes
IRAS ID
355717
Contact name
Abi Merriel
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Univerisity of Liverpool
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 8 months, 31 days
Research summary
Background:
Heart and circulatory disease are the leading cause of death worldwide, responsible for one in three deaths in women- more than cancer.
Pregnancy provides a window into a woman’s future heart health. High blood pressure during pregnancy, and conditions like gestational diabetes, increase the long-term risk of heart and circulatory diseases in women. Studies have shown that women with a history of pre-eclampsia had higher rates of death, heart failure, heart attacks, and stroke within five years postpartum. Gestational diabetes also increases the risk of these events, though to a lesser extent. The impact of this is particularly concerning because this could occur in women under 45, leading to long-term health issues.
Significance:
Despite recognizing the increased risk, most global and UK guidelines lack clear recommendations for long-term screening for heart and circulatory conditions in affected women. UK GP risk assessment tools do not factor in pregnancy complications. The Women's Health Strategy for England aims to improve awareness and management of these risks.
Justification for the study:
Our initial PPI survey suggests there is currently a gap in communication with women / birthing people about their long-term risks of heart and circulatory problems.
This project aims to assess the scale of the problem and gather insights from women / birthing people as well as healthcare professionals to better understand the challenges, before developing strategies for reducing the risks in these women.
Methodology:
A 12-month study using online surveys and qualitative interviews:
- We will recruit women/birthing people from NHS hospitals and health care professionals, to complete a survey about the diagnosis, information provided and ongoing management of women with these pregnancy complications
- We will carry out 20 interviews with women/birthing people and 20 with healthcare professionals to explore care experiences and identify improvements.REC name
London - Camden & Kings Cross Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
25/PR/0304
Date of REC Opinion
7 Apr 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion