Kenya’s Mothers Face Renewed Danger from Preeclampsia

 

Preeclampsia, a life-threatening pregnancy condition marked by high blood pressure, is claiming lives across Kenya and sub-Saharan Africa. Though preventable, it continues to threaten both mothers and babies — particularly in low-resource regions.



Mary, a 26-year-old from Embu, remembers her ordeal vividly. “I felt my feet swell and constant headaches,” she recalls. “At the clinic they said my pressure was high. A week later, I nearly died.” She delivered her baby prematurely at 32 weeks.

According to WHO and Kenya’s Ministry of Health, hypertensive disorders — including preeclampsia — account for nearly 20% of maternal deaths in the country. Regional studies estimate Kenya’s prevalence at 5.6–6.5%, while a review across sub-Saharan Africa places it at around 13%.

In a 2024 study at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, 49.5% of infants born to mothers with preeclampsia were underweight. This highlights not only the danger to mothers but also to newborns struggling to survive.

Experts cite late antenatal attendance, poor blood pressure screening, and lack of essential drugs as key drivers. Magnesium sulfate, the drug used to prevent seizures, remains out of stock in many facilities.

Prevention starts with awareness: early antenatal booking, frequent BP checks, and identifying high-risk women early. WHO recommends low-dose aspirin and calcium for those at risk.

An obstetrician in Kisumu, says, “Many of these deaths are avoidable. What we need is early detection, strong referral systems, and accessible emergency care.”

Kenya’s government is investing in training, community education, and improved maternal surveillance systems. However, experts warn that unless health facilities in rural areas are strengthened, thousands of women will remain at risk.

Preeclampsia remains a silent killer — but one that vigilance, education, and timely care.

Statistics from

Shirika la Afya Duniani (WHO), 2024.

Wizara ya Afya Kenya (KMIS, 2023).

Pan African Medical Journal & Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital Study, 2024

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