Using Low-Dose Aspirin in the Prevention of Pre-eclampsia and screening for High-risk: An assessment of Health workers' Knowledge and Practices in Southwestern Uganda

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Abstract Background: Preeclampsia is a major contributor to maternal and perinatal mortality and morbidity worldwide particularly in low-income countries like Uganda. The World Health Organization recommends screening and initiating all pregnant women at high risk for pre-eclampsia on low-dose Aspirin. However, it is not known whether health workers in Uganda are aware of its application and whether they use the drug use in preventing pre-eclampsia. Aim of the study: The study aimed at assessing the knowledge and self-reported practices of health workers on the use of low-dose aspirin in preventing pre-eclampsia among high-risk pregnant women in two districts in Western Uganda. Additionally, the study aimed to establish alternative approaches health workers use to prevent preeclampsia in high-risk pregnant women. Methods: The study employed a descriptive cross-sectional study design. Data were collected using a participant self-administered questionnaire from 136 health workers in Mbarara and Bushenyi districts. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 18. Results: The majority of participants (63%) were aware that preeclampsia is preventable. However, only 18 percent of participants reported having ever prescribed low-dose aspirin for pregnant women at high risk for preeclampsia. Participants reported using various drugs methyldopa, nifedipine, magnesium sulfate, and others to prevent and manage pre-eclampsia. Conclusion:This study was done in 2018. The study identified significant knowledge gaps on preeclampsia prevention, low-dose aspirin prescription, and screening for pregnant women at risk for preeclampsia among health workers in southwestern Uganda. Health workers reported using other drugs that are not recommended in the prevention of pre-eclampsia.

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