Dr Erika Chapman-Burgess & Dr Marilyn Clarke
O&G Coffs Clinical Network, John Hunter Hospital
It has been well established in the literature that First Nations women of Australia are at higher risk of developing early and late onset preeclampsia in pregnancy. However, the evidence that is available regarding prevalence of pre-eclampsia within this population is more than a decade old, with no recent data reflecting First-Nations specific predictors or risk factors. The most recently updated SOMANZ “Hypertension in Pregnancy Guideline (2023)” is exceptionally robust, high-level evidence-based and provides well-founded clinical guidelines but, there is lack of guidance on prevention of and management of hypertension in First Nations women despite poorer obstetric outcomes. This is an area of First Nations health demanding critical attention to not only improve maternal outcomes, but also reducing preterm birth, low birth weight and improving neonatal outcomes which all contribute as predictors for future adult health. The recent development of universal first trimester pregnancy screening services within the public health system, holds an expansive consignment of early pregnancy data, including prediction of preterm preeclampsia. As an Aboriginal-led discussion this presentation will review current data and guidelines for preeclampsia screening and modifiable risk factors for First Nations women, the areas of need for more research, universal first trimester screening in the public system and challenges faced in First Nations Heath research ethics, governance and data sovereignty.