New materials aim to help patients and providers understand emerging molecular diagnostic tools for hypertensive disorders of pregnancy.
The Preeclampsia Foundation has launched two educational resources designed to improve understanding of predictive and diagnostic testing for preeclampsia and related hypertensive disorders of pregnancy.
The “Ask About Preeclampsia Tests” explainer video and handout are available in English and Spanish to help patients understand why providers may recommend specific tests during pregnancy. The materials were developed with input from the Foundation’s Medical Advisory Board and Patient Advisory Council.
Preeclampsia and related hypertensive disorders affect approximately 5% to 8% of all pregnancies, according to a release from the foundation. The condition’s cause remains unclear, and delivery of the baby and placenta is the only treatment, though the condition can occur or worsen up to six weeks postpartum.
“Monitoring for preeclampsia includes blood pressure checks, weight measurement, and urine analysis during regular prenatal visits—and, sometimes, blood work to measure kidney, liver, and placenta function,” says Preeclampsia Foundation chief executive officer Eleni Tsigas, in a release. “Our community has shared a need for clearer understanding of why certain tests are done during pregnancy.”
Emerging Molecular Testing Options
Several manufacturers have developed molecular tests for preeclampsia in recent years, with additional products in development. Some tests help predict early onset preeclampsia, while others aid in diagnosing severe preeclampsia, which can have serious outcomes for mothers and babies.
These newer testing options supplement traditional monitoring methods that have long challenged obstetric healthcare providers managing hypertensive disorders of pregnancy.
The foundation designed the educational materials to be evidence-based and patient-centered, incorporating feedback from medical experts specializing in predictive and diagnostic testing as well as patient advisors.
Resource Availability
Patient resources about preeclampsia testing are available at www.preeclampsia.org/preeclampsia-tests. Provider resources can be found at www.preeclampsia.org/biomarkers.
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