Recent Advances in the Management of Preeclampsia in Rural Healthcare Settings

Review Paper | 2026 | Volume 1 | Issue 1 | Page 7-11

1. Dr. Abhilasha Jain, Assistant Professor, Department of Gynecology, GMC, Bhatinda

2. Dr. Usha Sharma, Assistant Professor, Department of Gynecology, GMC, Bhatinda
   

Abstract:

Background: Preeclampsia remains a leading cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality worldwide, with a disproportionately high burden in rural populations. In resource-limited settings, delayed diagnosis and lack of advanced intensive care facilities often lead to fatal complications like eclampsia and HELLP syndrome.

Objective: This review explores recent clinical and technological advancements designed to bridge the gap in preeclampsia management between urban tertiary centers and rural primary health centers (PHCs).

Methods: The study analyzes recent protocols from the World Health Organization (WHO) and FIGO, along with pilot studies on point-of-care (POC) diagnostics and mHealth interventions implemented in low-resource settings.

Discussion: A significant breakthrough in early screening is the use of the sFlt-1/PlGF ratio as a predictive biomarker, which is now being adapted into simplified, cost-effective test kits for rural clinics. Additionally, the shift towards low-dose aspirin (150 mg) initiated before 16 weeks of gestation has shown a marked reduction in early-onset preeclampsia. The review also highlights the efficacy of the "Task-Shifting" model, where community health workers are trained to use semi-automated, validated blood pressure devices and mobile apps for real-time risk stratification. Furthermore, the use of loading doses of Magnesium Sulfate (Mg) at the primary level before referral is discussed as a life-saving intervention.

Conclusion: Managing preeclampsia in rural settings requires a shift from "reactive" to "proactive" care. By integrating affordable biomarkers, digital health monitoring, and standardized referral protocols, rural healthcare systems can significantly reduce maternal mortality. Strengthening the "First Referral Units" (FRUs) with essential antihypertensives and magnesium sulfate remains the cornerstone of survival.

Keywords: Preeclampsia, Rural Healthcare, Maternal Mortality, Magnesium Sulfate, Biomarkers, mHealth, Hypertension in Pregnancy.