Cardiovascular Risk Factors among Pregnant Women attending Antenatal Care at Primary Health Care Centres in Sokoto Metropolis

Abstract

Background: Cardiovascular disease risk factors in pregnancy, including hypertension, obesity, and gestational diabetes, substantially increase the risk of maternal and fetal complications such as pre-eclampsia and preterm birth. Understanding their burden in antenatal populations is crucial for early detection and targeted interventions.

Objectives: This study determined the prevalence of hypertension and obesity among pregnant women in Sokoto Metropolis and examined their associations with key socio-demographic factors.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in nine randomly selected Primary Health Care facilities in Sokoto Metropolis using the WHO STEPS approach. Through multistage stratified sampling, 205 pregnant women were enrolled. Data were collected via structured questionnaires and physical measurements. Analysis was done using IBM SPSS version 25.

Results: Of the 205 participating pregnant women, the mean age was 26 years. The prevalence of hypertension was 21 (10.2%). The prevalence of obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m²) was 12 (5.9%), and an additional 58 (28.3%) were overweight. Cigarette smoking and alcohol consumption were reported by 2 (1%) and 4 (2%) of respondents, respectively. Educational level and occupational status showed significant associations with elevated blood pressure (p = 0.026 and p = 0.012, respectively). No significant association was observed between ethnicity and cardiovascular risk factors.

Conclusion: This study found notable hypertension and obesity prevalence among pregnant women in Sokoto PHC antenatal clinics, highlighting the need for routine screening, strengthened health education, and targeted interventions to reduce cardiovascular risks during pregnancy.