Home / Health / Local News Anchor's Harrowing Preeclampsia Survival Story Spurs Hospital Policy Change
Local News Anchor's Harrowing Preeclampsia Survival Story Spurs Hospital Policy Change
15 Nov
Summary
- Hospitals now recommend low-dose aspirin for all pregnant patients to prevent preeclampsia
- Rates of preeclampsia have climbed 25% in the U.S. over the last 2 decades
- Only half of eligible pregnant women are currently taking the recommended aspirin
In a significant move to address the growing threat of preeclampsia, a potentially deadly pregnancy complication, many hospitals are now recommending that all of their pregnant patients take low-dose aspirin. This policy shift comes as studies have shown that too many doctors fail to follow existing guidelines for preventing preeclampsia.
The March of Dimes, a leading maternal and infant health organization, has essentially endorsed this approach, stating that it may be "medically reasonable" for some medical practices to offer the preventative drug to all of their pregnant patients. Experts say this could pave the way for more widespread adoption of the recommendation, much like prenatal vitamins are already standard practice.
