
Pregnancy is commonly called a window into future CVH (cardiovascular health). Understanding the pathophysiologic mechanisms and pathways linking prepregnancy CVH, adverse pregnancy outcomes, and cardiovascular disease is necessary to develop strategies tailored for each stage in the peripartum period. Emerging evidence suggests the utility of subclinical cardiovascular disease screening with biomarkers (e.g., natriuretic peptides) or imaging (e.g., computed tomography for coronary artery calcium or echocardiography for adverse cardiac remodelling) to identify risk-enriched postpartum populations and target for more intensive strategies with health behaviour interventions or pharmacological treatments. However, evidence-based guidelines focused on adults with a history of adverse pregnancy outcomes are needed to prioritize the prevention of cardiovascular disease during the reproductive years and beyond.
Like
Save
Share