PPCM occurred in 1 of 1,600 deliveries; risk factors include maternal age >35 (OR 1.98), Ethiopian descent (OR 4.17), cardiovascular disease (OR 15.2), arrhythmia (OR 4.13).
What are the sociodemographic, cardiovascular, and pregnancy-associated risk factors for developing peripartum cardiomyopathy?
Pre-existing cardiovascular disease, Ethiopian descent, and cesarean delivery are among the strongest independent risk factors for developing peripartum cardiomyopathy.
Absolute Event Rate: 0% vs 0%
Abstract Background Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is a potentially life-threatening form of acute heart failure occurring in late pregnancy or the postpartum period. Despite its rising incidence and significant maternal morbidity and mortality, the diagnosis of PPCM remains challenging as symptoms often overlap with those of normal pregnancy. Identifying women at high-risk for PPCM before disease onset may facilitate early intervention, potentially improving maternal outcomes. Purpose To identify key population-based risk factors for PPCM and explore opportunities for early clinical intervention using a large, diverse cohort. Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort study utilizing the computerized database of Israel’s largest healthcare provider, encompassing all deliveries from 2014 to 2024. Patients with pre-existing cardiomyopathy were excluded. PPCM cases were identified using diagnostic codes for acute heart failure and new-onset cardiomyopathy. The control group comprised all deliveries without PPCM. A multivariable logistic regression model was employed to identify independent risk factors associated with PPCM. Results Among 290,859 deliveries, 182 cases of PPCM were identified (incidence: 1 in 1,600 deliveries). Significant independent predictors of PPCM included: Sociodemographic Factors: Maternal age 35 years (OR 1.98, p0.01), Ethiopian descent (OR 4.17, p0.001). Pre-existing Conditions: diabetes mellitus (OR 2.53, p0.01), cardiovascular disease (OR 15.2, p0.001), arrhythmia (OR 4.13, p0.001), endometriosis (OR 2.58, p0.01). Pregnancy-Associated Factors: hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (OR 2.15, p0.01), cesarean delivery (OR 4.17, p0.001), and preeclampsia (OR 2.96, p0.001). Conclusions We identified a number of risk factors that could aid in the detection of women at elevated risk for PPCM, potentially enabling early intervention strategies to reduce morbidity and mortality. Screening protocols incorporating these risk factors could enhance clinical vigilance and guide targeted monitoring. Prospective validation of our model is warranted to refine risk stratification and optimize preventative strategies for PPCM in obstetric and cardiology practice.
Shmueli et al. (Sat,) reported a other. PPCM occurred in 1 of 1,600 deliveries; risk factors include maternal age >35 (OR 1.98), Ethiopian descent (OR 4.17), cardiovascular disease (OR 15.2), arrhythmia (OR 4.13).