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Ethnicity, body mass index and risk of pre- eclampsia in a multiethnic New Zealand population

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From Māori Health Review Issue 42
Authors:
  • Anderson NH et al
Summary:

These researchers retrospectively analysed maternity data for 26,254 singleton pregnancies recorded during the period 2006 to 2009 at National Women’s Health, Auckland, New Zealand. The study hypothesis was that after adjusting for confounders, including ethnic- specific body mass index (BMI), ethnicity would not be an independent risk factor for pre-eclampsia. Multivariable logistic regression analysis adjusted for ethnicity, BMI, maternal age, parity, smoking, social deprivation, diabetes, chronic hypertension and relevant pre-existing medical conditions. Findings revealed an independent reduced risk of pre-eclampsia in Chinese (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.56) and an increased risk of pre-eclampsia in Māori (aOR 1.51) compared with European women. Other independent risk factors for pre-eclampsia included overweight and obesity, nulliparity, type 1 diabetes, chronic hypertension and pre-existing medical conditions.

Comment:
I’ve grouped these two papers together to highlight the fact that whilst international researchers are recognising the impact of cumulative racism before and during the haputanga period on maternity and neonatal outcomes, NZ-based clinicians were surprised to see that ethnic disparities in pre-eclampsia rates were not due to ‘ethnic-specific BMI’. Perhaps they should watch this video on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k8fuzh4d544. Of note, many indigenous researchers suggest that impacts occur longer than the ‘life course’ and are instead ‘historical’ stressors. This is discussed further in the adjacent paper.
Reference: Aust N Z J Obstet Gynaecol 2012;52(6):552-8
Abstract
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Independent commentary by Dr. Matire Hardwood

Dr Matire Harwood (Ngapuhi) has worked in Hauora Māori, primary health and rehabilitation settings as clinician and researcher since graduating from Auckland Medical School in 1994. She also holds positions on a number of boards, committees and advisory groups including the Health Research Council. Matire lives in Auckland with her whānau including partner Haunui and two young children Te Rangiura and Waimarie.

Research Review publications are intended for New Zealand health professionals.

Disclaimer: This publication is not intended as a replacement for regular medical education but to assist in the process. The reviews are a summarised interpretation of the published study and reflect the opinion of the writer rather than those of the research group or scientific journal. It is suggested readers review the full trial data before forming a final conclusion on its merits.

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