Pregnancy is often described as a “stress test” that helps identify women who are at risk of developing chronic diseases later in life. Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) (i.e., preeclampsia, eclampsia and gestational hypertension) and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) are the two most common medical complications of pregnancy, both of which were once thought to resolve after delivery of the child.
We now know that these conditions carry serious implications for a woman’s long-term health. Women with HDP represent one of the highest-risk populations for premature cardiovascular disease.
For women with HDP, cardiovascular disease can develop at a relatively young age. Women who experience gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) also have a substantially increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life. Type 2 diabetes is an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease, and women with a history of GDM also have an increased long-term risk of cardiovascular disease.
To address this important clinical problem, we adapted our CardioPrevent program to support high-risk women postpartum. CardioPrevent is a heart health program that helps people with risk factors lower their chances of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD).
The program accepts individuals who are at moderate to high risk for CVD. Participation requires a referral by a physician or nurse practitioner, and results are shared with the referring physician to support coordination of care.
Contact us
For more information call the Prevention and Wellness Centre at 613-696-7071 or 1-866-399-4432
"My health coach was so helpful in providing me with extra information (healthy recipes, workout info, etc.) and I felt supported the entire time while in the program. I feel healthy and confident that I can maintain the healthy lifestyle. The information and support provided was invaluable!" – Program Participant