High level of highly sensitivity c-reactive protein levels (hs-CRP) as a risk factor for preterm delivery

Introduction: Preterm labor is still a global problem because it affects perinatal morbidity and mortality, especially in developing countries. An increase in hs-CRP in pregnant women is associated with the incidence of preterm labor. This study was conducted to prove that high serum hs-CRP levels are a risk factor for preterm labor. Method: The method used in this study is an observational case-control study, in which pregnant women with preterm labor are in cases group, whereas preterm pregnant women that are not in labor, included in control group. Cases and controls were not matched in the gestational age variable. In both groups blood samples were taken. Blood sampling was taken in the cubital vein to examine the serum levels of hs-CRP. From the data collected, data analysis was performed using SPSS version 23.0. In this study, after the data normality test was performed using the Shapiro-Wilk test, the result p values <0.05 or abnormal distribution data, the Mann Whitney test was chosen. A Chi-square test was performed to determine the increase in serum hs-CRP levels as a risk of preterm labor. Result: hs-CRP levels as a risk of preterm labor. Calculation of the OR is 19.46 times with 95% CI: 2.25-168.27. Conclusion: it can be concluded that high levels of hs-CRP as a risk factor for preterm labor.