Long-Term Predictors of Gestational Hypertension: Placental Growth Factor, Pregnancy-Associated Plasma Protein-A and Free Beta-Hcg Versus Mean Arterial Pressure and Uterine Artery Doppler Versus a Combination of Both: A Comparative Study.

Background: According to WHO, hypertensive disease is the leading cause of direct maternal mortality accounting for 10-25% in developing countries (James in Heart, 90(12):1499-504). This study compares the combinations of mean arterial pressure (MAP) and uterine artery doppler (UAD) versus serum-free HCG, pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A, and placental growth factor (PlGF) versus a combination of all variables at 11 to 13 as long-term predictors of pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH).

Materials And Methods: A prospective, observational cohort study recruited 97 primigravidae at 11 to 13 weeks gestation at GMCH.