Evaluation of Calcium in Preeclamptic Pregnant Women Attending Federal Medical Centre Keffi, North Central Nigeria

Abstract: Background: Preeclampsia remains a leading cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality worldwide, with significant burden in low and middle-income countries such as Nigeria. Hypocalcemia has been implicated in preeclampsia. We aim to evaluate the serum calcium levels in preeclamptic pregnant women to determine its role in preeclampsia. Methods: A total of 150 women who consented to be part of the study, were recruited into the study. 50 preeclamptic pregnant women serves as study group and 100 normotensive non-pregnant women serves as the control, following a matching criterion ratio of 1:2. Serum calcium was estimated spectrophotometrically and the blood pressure was measured using a mercury sphygmomanometer. Results:  The mean and Standard Deviation (SD) of serum calcium levels in preeclamptic pregnant women (7.10 ± 2.10), was statistically significantly lower, (p< 0.001) relative to the normotensive non-pregnant women (9.60 ± 0.90). 70% of the preeclamptic women show hypocalcemia;10% show hypercalcemia; and 20% show a normal serum calcium level. The mean blood pressure in the preeclamptic women was higher than non- pregnant normotensive women, (p<0.001). Conclusion: The study demonstrates low serum calcium levels and high blood pressure in preeclamptic women.