LOW SERUM ADIPONECTIN AND HIGH SERUM LEPTIN LEVELS FOUND IN WOMEN WITH HYPERTENSIVE DISEASES OF PREGNANCY COMPARED TO NORMOTENSIVE PREGNANT WOMEN

Abstract

Objective: The study aimed to compare serum leptin and adiponectin levels between women with hypertensive diseases of pregnancy (HDP) and normotensive pregnant women and to evaluate their associations with Body Mass Index and blood pressure.

Methodology:  A cross-sectional study was conducted at the outpatient department of Hayatabad Medical Complex, Peshawar, from 12^thAugust 2024 to12th November 2024. A total of 125 participants were divided into two groups: women with hypertensive diseases of pregnancy (HDP; n = 62) and normotensive pregnant women (n = 63). Serum levels of leptin and adiponectin were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). Body Mass Index (BMI) and blood pressure were recorded and classified. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics in SPSS

Results: Women with HDP had significantly elevated serum leptin levels (45.2 ± 9.6 ng/mL) and decreased adiponectin levels (3.8 ± 0.9 µg/mL) compared to the normotensive group (leptin: 27.8 ± 7.1 ng/mL; adiponectin: 5.6 ± 1.2 µg/mL). Correlation analysis revealed a positive association between leptin levels, Body Mass Index (BMI), and blood pressure (systolic and diastolic). Conversely, adiponectin levels showed a negative association with BMI and blood pressure. These findings highlight the potential role of these biomarkers in the pathophysiology of hypertension during pregnancy.

Conclusion: In conclusion, Elevated levels of leptin and reduced adiponectin are associated with hypertensive diseases during pregnancy. These biomarkers could serve as likely indicators for early detection and management of HDP.