EVALUATING THE IMPACT OF GESTATIONAL HYPERTENSION ON COAGULATION, IMMUNE RESPONSE, AND INFLAMMATORY MARKERS IN ATHLETES: CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to investigate the risk factors associated with gestational hypertension among female athletes and analyze the relationship between gestational hypertension and coagulation, immune, and inflammatory markers, providing a practical foundation for clinical diagnosis, prevention, and treatment. Methods: Sixty athletes with pregnancy-induced hypertension treated at the Sports Medicine Facility between May 2021 and May 2023, meeting the diagnostic criteria from the "Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Hypertensive Disorders Complicating Pregnancy," were selected as the observation group. Sixty healthy pregnant athletes served as controls. Clinical data collected included age, BMI, pregnancy history, adverse mood, history of smoking, diabetes, and family hypertension history. Blood samples were analyzed for coagulation indices, immune factors, and inflammatory markers. Univariate and multivariate analyses identified risk factors associated with gestational hypertension and their relationships with clinical indicators. Results: There were no significant differences in age, gestational age, and BMI between the groups. However, significant differences were found in systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Risk factors including multiple pregnancies, negative mood, and family history showed a significant correlation with gestational hypertension. Pregnant athletes with hypertension exhibited altered coagulation indices (decreased PT, APTT, TT, and increased Fib), lower levels of serum complement and immunoglobulins, and elevated TNF-α and IL-6 compared to healthy controls. Conclusion: Factors such as multiple pregnancies, smoking history, and family hypertension history are critical risk indicators for gestational hypertension in athletes. Changes in coagulation, immune, and inflammatory markers offer predictive value for assessing risk in this population. This study underscores the importance of tailored monitoring and management strategies for pregnant athletes to mitigate risks associated with gestational hypertension.