Rationale of a Cross-Sectional Descriptive Study on Temporal Evolution of Frequency, Risk Factors and Complications of Preeclampsia in the University Clinics of Kinshasa, DR Congo

Abstract

Background: Knowledge of temporal evolution of preeclampsia (PE) in its various aspects is essential in strategies to reduce maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. Preeclampsia is a public health problem due to maternal mortality associated with it worldwide (5.6%). Improving quality of its management is a major challenge in low-income countries where, despite progress made in this field, PE remains a major factor in maternal morbidity and mortality. Objective: To evaluate temporal evolution of frequency, risk factors and complications of PE at the University clinics of Kinshasa (UCK). Methods: Descriptive and cross-sectional study concerning minimum simple size of 119 pregnant women who consulted for antenatal care at the University clinics of Kinshasa from January 2012 to December 2022. Results will be reported as percentage proportion, mean and standard deviation. Comparison of proportion and means between groups will be made using Student’s t-test and Pearson’s chi-square test, respectively. The test will be statistically significant for a p value ≤ less than 0.05. Data will be collected and analysed anonymously and confidentially. Conclusion: This study will allow us to evaluate the effectiveness of different prevention and treatment modalities used over time in management of preeclampsia in our setting.