Pre-eclampsia and its outcome (maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality) in two referral hospitals (Windhoek Central and Katutura), Namibia

Abstract

Pre-eclampsia is a multi-organ system disorder that occurs after the 20th week of gestation in pregnancy and is characterized by hypertension and proteinuria with or with out oedema. It is a major cause of morbidity and mortality for the woman and her child. Based on surveillance data, pre-eclampsia is one of the leading causes of maternal mortality in Namibia. However, there is no depth study done in Namibia that looks at the extent of confirmed pre-eclampia and its contribution to maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. There is also no standard management protocol currently recommended in Namibia. The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcomes and quality of care given to pre-eclamptic patients treated in Windhoek Central and Katutura referral hospitals in Namibia within the period of January 2003 to December 2004.