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Early Prediction of Preeclampsia Using arteriaL Stiffness in High-risk prEgnancies

Pre-Eclampsia | Arterial Stiffness | High Risk Pregnancy

Despite advances in obstetric care, preeclampsia (PE) remains the leading cause of maternal death and disability in both developed and developing countries, contributing to over 70,000 maternal and 500,000 fetal deaths annually worldwide. PULSE was designed using a preventative medicine approach, focusing on improving early detection of PE as opposed to managing symptoms after onset. The study aims to uncover the earliest possible signs of PE using a combination of novel clinical tools and established diagnostic techniques to better identify, track, and manage high risk pregnant women. Specifically, PULSE will be examining the incorporation of a non-invasive test for the measurement of arterial stiffness, which has been shown to be predictive of hypertensive disorders. This test, in combination with a wide range of blood biomarkers, detailed ultrasound imaging, and a comprehensive battery of physical and mental health questionnaires, represents the largest, most comprehensive preventative PE study to date. The results of this work has the potential to revolutionize the way PE and other hypertensive disorders of pregnancy are managed and treated and can serve to inform the design of future preventative clinical research studies.

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Participation Requirements

  • Sex:

    FEMALE
  • Eligible Ages:

    18 and up

Participation Criteria

Inclusion Criteria:

* Singleton pregnancy
* Presence of at least 1 high-risk factor or 2 moderate-risk factors for pre-eclampsia

Exclusion Criteria:

* \>14 weeks gestation
* Multiple pregnancy
* History of heart disease, stroke, or peripheral arterial disease
* Infectious diseases/conditions, such as Hepatitis B/C, HIV, and COVID19

Study Location

Royal Victoria Hospital
Royal Victoria Hospital
Montreal, Quebec
Canada

Contact Study Team

Study Sponsored By
McGill University Health Centre/Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre
Participants Required
More Information
Study ID: NCT04783597