Prevalence and Determinants of Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension Among Women Attending Antenatal Care in Asella Town, Southeast Ethiopia: A Cross-Sectional Study.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension (PIH) is a primary contributor to global maternal and perinatal mortality. This study determined the prevalence of PIH and identified its modifiable and non-modifiable determinants among pregnant women attending antenatal care (ANC) in Asella Town, southeast Ethiopia.

METHODS

A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted in December 2023 across three public health facilities. Systematic random sampling selected 834 pregnant women with a gestational age greater than 20 weeks. Data were collected through structured interviewer-administered and medical chart reviews. Statistical analyses were performed using STATA Software, version 17.0 (StataCorp LLC, College Station, TX, USA). Variables with a p-value less than 0.25 in bivariable analysis were fitted into a multivariable logistic regression model. Statistical significance was declared at a two-sided p-value less than 0.05.

RESULTS

Of 834 sampled individuals, 794 completed the study (95.2% response rate). The PIH prevalence was 5.2% (95% CI: 3.7%, 7.0%). Multivariable analysis identified several factors associated with higher odds of PIH: no formal education (AOR = 5.44, 95% CI: 1.47-20.19), multiple pregnancy (AOR = 3.69, 95% CI: 1.07-12.7), family history of chronic hypertension (AOR = 4.04, 95% CI: 1.51-10.8), presence of edema (AOR = 3.84, 95% CI: 1.37-10.7), and alcohol consumption within the past 12 months (AOR = 6.19, 95% CI: 1.11-34.4). Conversely, receiving nutritional counseling during ANC was associated with reduced odds of developing PIH (AOR = 0.27, 95% CI: 0.09-0.79).

CONCLUSIONS

PIH remains a notable health concern among pregnant women in Asella town, showing prevalence comparable to national averages. The identified factors emphasize the interplay between non-modifiable traits and modifiable behaviors. Strengthening routine ANC services through standardized nutritional counseling may serve as an effective, accessible preventive approach in low-resource primary care settings.