New research suggests that maintaining a healthy weight prior to pregnancy may have long-term cardiovascular benefits.
Findings from the Hyperglycemia and Adverse Pregnancy Outcome Follow-Up Study (HAPO FUS) reveal that women with obesity before pregnancy are more likely to exhibit elevated cardiovascular risk factors in midlife, independent of pregnancy complications such as gestational diabetes or hypertension.1
The study tracked more than 4,000 women over a 10–14 year period, assessing various metabolic and cardiovascular indicators. Women who entered pregnancy with obesity had higher mean arterial pressure, triglycerides, and HbA1c levels in midlife compared to those who had a normal BMI prior to pregnancy. Notably, the study found that adverse pregnancy outcomes accounted for only a small portion of this increased cardiovascular risk, suggesting that prepregnancy weight alone plays a significant role in long-term heart health.
These findings reinforce the importance of early preventive care, particularly for women of reproductive age. While much attention has been given to prenatal and postnatal health, this study shifts focus to the critical preconception period as an opportunity to influence lifelong well-being.
Experts emphasize that healthcare providers should incorporate weight counselling and metabolic screening into routine care for women planning pregnancy. By addressing modifiable risk factors before conception, it may be possible to reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease later in life.
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