Assessing the Knowledge and Attitudes of Preeclampsia in Pregnancy among Female Students in a Malaysian Private University

Background: Preeclampsia is a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy that can result in serious maternal and fetal complications and often affects multiple organ systems due to systemic vasospasm and endothelial dysfunction. Despite its clinical importance, there is limited research on university students’ understanding of preeclampsia. Poor knowledge may increase the risk of adverse maternal outcomes and influence health-seeking behaviors in future pregnancies. Objectives: To assess the knowledge and attitudes towards preeclampsia and examine their association with sociodemographic factors among female students at the University of Cyberjaya. Material and Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted among 421 female students using convenience sampling across faculties. A validated self-administered questionnaire was used to measure knowledge and attitudes towards preeclampsia. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics to establish baseline knowledge and attitudes, and chi-square tests were performed to determine associations between sociodemographic factors and students’ knowledge and attitudes towards preeclampsia. Results: Most of the participants were undergraduates (98.8%) and pursued studies in non-medical faculties (78.1%). About 2/3rd of participants had low knowledge, and less than half (48.9%) had positive attitudes towards preeclampsia. Knowledge was significantly associated with race, age group, and faculty type; with Malay, Chinese, older, and medical students having better knowledge (P-value < 0.05). Conclusion: Most female students reported low knowledge of preeclampsia with notable gaps in recognizing symptoms, risk factors, and complications. They also demonstrated mixed attitudes, reflecting a grey zone for health promotion. Nevertheless, higher education institutions, especially those with medical programs, should serve as platforms for health education to strengthen young women’s preparedness for future maternal health challenges.