The epidemiology and determinants of pregnancy-induced hypertension from 2010-2013: a population-based survey in northwestern China

Objective: To investigate the prevalence and risk factors for pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH) in Shaanxi Province of Northwest China. A stratified multistage random sampling method was applied to recruit women of childbearing age (15-49 years) living in Shaanxi Province who gave birth from 2010-2013. The participants' characteristics were recorded using a structured questionnaire. A multilevel model was employed to evaluate the effect of the possible risk factors on PIH. Of the 29,184 women surveyed, the prevalence of PIH was 1.60% (95% CI: 1.46%-1.75%). A multilevel model analysis indicated that maternal age >= 35 years (OR=2.05, 95% CI: 1.55-2.70), unstable mental status (OR=1.49, 95% CI: 1.04-2.15), multiple pregnancies (OR=3.14, 95% CI: 1.82-5.45), gestational diabetes mellitus (OR=5.84, 95% CI: 2.42-14.11), and fetal malformation (OR=2.52, 95% CI: 1.61-3.92) were significantly associated with an increased risk of PIH. Healthcare professionals should strengthen their monitoring of high-risk pregnant women with these risk factors for PIH. Our findings provide clues about the etiology of PIH and useful evidence for formulating effective policies and health care programs for PIH intervention in northwest China.