COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF SERUM CALCIUM LEVEL IN NORMOTENSIVE SINGLETON VERSUS PRE-ECLAMPTIC PREGNANCIES

Background: Preeclampsia is a complex condition during pregnancy that poses serious risks to both the mother and child, particularly in less developed regions. The relationship between blood calcium levels and preeclampsia remains poorly understood. This study investigates the potential association between blood calcium levels and the etiology of preeclampsia in pregnant Pakistani women. Methods: This study was conducted at the Obstetrics and Gynecology Departments of Pakistan Air Force Hospital, Kamra, and Pakistan Air Force Hospital, Islamabad, from December 2023 to May 2024. It included 107 women diagnosed with preeclampsia and 105 normotensive pregnant women, matched for age and parity. Data were collected through structured questionnaires, clinical examinations, and blood tests for calcium levels, analyzed using spectrophotometry. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 23, with significance set at p<0.05. Results: Women with preeclampsia had significantly lower mean blood calcium levels (1.83±0.51 mmol/L) compared to the control group (2.22±0.12 mmol/L; p<0.01). They also exhibited higher body mass index, systolic blood pressure, and diastolic blood pressure. Hypocalcemia was observed in 41.12% of preeclamptic women versus 6.67% of controls (p=0.01). Conclusion: Blood calcium levels may serve as a potential indicator of preeclampsia. Regular monitoring of calcium levels could aid in predicting the onset and severity of the condition. Early identification and management of hypocalcemia may benefit pregnant women at risk of developing hypertension