Trends and Predictors of Pre-Eclampsia between 1990 and 2020 in Ghana: A Systematic Review

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DOI: 10.21522/TIJPH.2013.13.04.Art027

Authors : Priscilla N. A. Odei-Quansah, Francis Z. Taabia, Martin Nyaaba. Adokiya

Abstract:

Pre-eclampsia is a specific form of hypertension in pregnancy that raises significant public health concerns globally. Mothers may sometimes appear healthy, yet later develop pre-eclampsia, leading to adverse consequences, including death. This situation has underscored the necessity for ongoing research to improve maternal birth outcomes and prevent disabilities and fatalities. This systematic review assessed trends and predictors of pre-eclampsia in Ghana over the last three decades. This review covered publications from January 1990 to December 2020, using three bibliographic databases. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement was used to screen and select the papers included in the review. The tool for Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) was used to enhance the quality of the evaluated papers. The majority (13 out of 21) of studies on the prevalence and predictors of pre-eclampsia were conducted between 2011 and 2020. The review found an average incidence rate of 9.1% for pre-eclampsia and identified approximately twenty-six predictors among pregnant women. These predictors included demographic and maternal factors, dietary and environmental influences, as well as maternal and perinatal care services. There is an increasing trend of pre-eclampsia among women in Ghana. Although the predictors of pre-eclampsia are relatively similar to those in other parts of the world, healthcare providers should ensure timely screening, treatment, and management to reduce adverse outcomes, including maternal mortality during pregnancy.

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