Early antenatal serum lipid levels and the risk of pre-eclampsia in Trinidad and Tobago

Objective: To determine the lipid levels in early pregnancy and the risk for pre-eclampsia in a Trinidad population. Methods: Prospective cohort study comprised 156 pregnant women attending antenatal clinic visits prior to 20 weeks at an average of 14 weeks. Blood samples were analysed for lipid levels. Of which 102 participants were followed until delivery and were monitored for pre-eclampsia. Data was analysed using univariate linear and stepwise logistic regression analysis. Results: In the study 11 women developed pre-eclampsia and 91 remained normal. Mean triglyceride levels were found significantly higher in the pre-eclampsia group (p=0.001). Mean HDL levels were low and LDL/HDL ratios were high in pre-eclampsia group. Women with triglycerides above 130mg/dL had increased risk of pre-eclampsia (adjusted OR 14.046; 95% CI 1.2541-57.334) compared with those with triglycerides levels 91mg/dL or less. Conclusion: Increased serum triglyceride levels in early pregnancy before 20 weeks are associated with pre-eclampsia.