London Health Sciences Centre Research Institute (LHSCRI) scientists are collaborating with researchers around the world to better understand and predict preeclampsia, a high blood pressure condition experienced by pregnant individuals that can lead to organ damage and even death if left untreated.
Currently, there is no method to predict whether a pregnant person could develop preeclampsia or who is at risk. This means preventative care may not reach those who need it. The active study called Early Prediction of Preeclampsia Using arteriaL Stiffness in High-risk prEgnancies” (PULSE) aims to change this by studying whether arterial hardening — which is when blood vessels that carry blood from your heart to the rest of the body become stiff, thick, or less flexible — can be used as a marker to predict pregnant individuals at risk of preeclampsia.
Earlier research, led by Dr. Genevieve Eastabrook and Dr. Barbra de Vrijer, both researchers at LHSCRI and Obstetricians at London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC), have shown that cardiovascular and metabolic health can have long-term consequences for both the birthing person and the baby.
“We are seeing an increase in pregnant individuals with preeclampsia, which is a dangerous condition,” says Dr. Eastabrook. “Earlier studies have found that pregnant individuals who develop preeclampsia are at risk of developing cardiac disease later in life — and interestingly, the children born from these pregnancies may also be at risk of cardiovascular disease as well.”
The PULSE study is looking at whether stiff arteries in pregnant individuals can help physicians predict health problems better than other warning signs.
“By finding ways to better predict preeclampsia, we can help reduce life-threatening conditions like organ damage and even reduce deaths of pregnant individuals and babies,” said Dr. de Vrijer. “We’re hoping to enhance the standard of care worldwide and have better outcomes.”
Dr. Daskalopoulou at McGill University Health Centre is the principal investigator of the study and is collaborating with LHSCRI scientists, as well as six health-care institutions across Canada and three around the world.
LHSCRI has recruited 81 patients, as of April 28, 2025, with a goal of 300 patients. The worldwide study is looking to have a total of 2,400 participants, with 1,410 individuals currently recruited in the study. Pregnant individuals who receive care at LHSC and have their first measurement done before they are 14 weeks pregnant are eligible. Patients can discuss with their health-care provider to learn more.
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