The Cox model of predicting adverse maternal outcomes of preeclampsia / eclampsia at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Birnin Kebbi, Nigeria

Abstract

Introduction: Preeclampsia and eclampsia are the foremost reasons behind feto-maternal morbidity as well as mortality, particularly in developing nations, and are a common cause of pregnancy complications globally.  The Cox regression model is utilized for the identification of adverse maternal consequences of preeclampsia/eclampsia, which is imperative in effectively managing preeclampsia/eclampsia patients. Objective: The study aimed to recognize the maternal adverse consequences of preeclampsia and eclampsia among women with pregnancy-induced hypertension in Northwest Nigeria using the Cox proportional hazards model. Methods: This retrospective research was performed among preeclampsia/eclampsia cases attending the Federal University Teaching Hospital, Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, Nigeria.  Data were extracted from patients’ charts using a proforma. Descriptive analyses were calculated, and the Cox regression model was used for the analysis to determine the adverse maternal outcomes of preeclampsia/eclampsia in the study area. Results: The Cox regression model results identified six maternal outcomes of preeclampsia/eclampsia: stillbirth, placenta abruption, premature birth, maternal demise, low birth weight and unconsciousness as statistically significant and clinically plausible maternal consequences behind preeclampsia or eclampsia. Conclusion: The findings of this research provided the unfavorable maternal consequences of preeclamptic/eclamptic cases in FTH Birnin Kebbi, which affirms that preeclampsia/eclampsia are causes of both fetomaternal morbidity as well as mortality. Employment and continuous training of healthcare professionals, especially in rural areas, should be considered a priority; creating awareness of preeclampsia and eclampsia should be raised, focusing on younger women and women of childbearing age.