Publication:

Proportional distribution and sociodemographic profile of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy: a hospital-based cross-sectional study in Udaipur, India

Background Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) are a leading cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality, particularly in low-resource settings. Understanding the socio-demographic and clinical profile of affected women is essential for early detection, targeted care, and improved outcomes. The objective of this study was to determine the proportional prevalence, distribution of different types of hypertensive disorders in pregnancy and their socio-demographic profile.

Methods A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 210 pregnant women diagnosed with HDP at Pannadhay Zanana Hospital, RNT Medical College, Udaipur. Data were collected using structured forms from labour rooms, PNC wards, and OT records. The types of HDP were classified as chronic hypertension, gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, and eclampsia.

Results Among the 210 respondents, gestational hypertension (50.5%) was most common, followed by preeclampsia (34.3%), eclampsia (10.0%), and chronic hypertension (5.2%). Majority were from joint families (57.14%), lower-middle SES (50.5%), and had parity ≤2 (94.7%). The most affected age group was 28-32 years (33.8%). Regarding BMI, 24.2% were obese and 27.1% were overweight.

Conclusions Gestational hypertension constituted the highest proportion, followed by preeclampsia, eclampsia, and chronic hypertension. Most affected women were in the 23-32-year age group, belonged to lower middle and upper lower socioeconomic classes, and a considerable proportion were overweight or obese, highlighting the sociodemographic distribution of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy in a hospital-based setting.