WORLD PRE-ECLAMPSIA DAY – 22 MAY 2019

Today is World Pre-Eclampsia Day, and to mark this I recently led the first ever debate in the House of Commons on pre-eclampsia. My debate highlighted the importance of raising awareness of the signs and symptoms of this life-threatening condition, both among expectant mothers and medical staff who treat and care for them.

Unfortunately, research suggests that around 1,000 babies die every year in the UK due to pre-eclampsia related complications. My own son was stillborn at full term in 2009 after hospital staff failed to spot that I had pre-eclampsia, and the condition almost cost me my own life as well.

Detection and monitoring of expecting mothers is vital so that the signs of pre-eclampsia can be identified early, as we already know which what the risk factor are. I also pointed out that we must ensure women are listened to when they present to medical professionals, and their concerns taken seriously.

We need more research, treatment and detection so that as much progress as possible so that babies do not die as a result of pre-eclampsia.

Click below to watch my speech.