The hypertensive disorders of pregnancy

The World Health Organization conducted an interregional collaborative study on the epidemiology of the hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. Following the recommendations set forth at the meeting of the Steering Committee in 1979, the objectives were : to study the epidemiology of the hypertensive disorders of pregnancy in different parts of the world with the purpose of establishing simple and appropriate tools for surveillance and reporting, especially in developing areas; to develop methods for early detection, control, and treatment appropriate to the primary health care level; to measure the effects of control measures on the mother, fetus, and child; and to develop methods for the training of health workers at the local level and for health education of the community concerning the importance of early detection of the hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. The Study Group convened to review current knowledge concerning the hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and some of the preliminary findings from the collaborative study and, in particular, to make recommendations regarding the classification, diagnosis, and management of these conditions.