Mothers Heart Study: an observational study of early pregnancy cardiometabolic risk factors and risk for cardiovascular diseases in later life

This study includes 4 study visits. Visit 1 (prior to 16 weeks gestation) - At the first antenatal appointment, patients are asked questions about their demographics, current and past medical history, family history of hypertension, type 2 diabetes, ischemic heart disease and stroke. They are also asked about current health conditions, smoking, and level of physical activity. Some information, such as previous pregnancies and oral glucose test results are collected from the hospital’s medical records. Height and weight are measured and hemodynamic profile is assessed using USCOM BP+. The first visit will take approximately 20 to 25 minutes, as it includes signing consent forms and completing self-contained questionnaires. Visit 2 (24-28 weeks' gestation) During this visit, any change of data obtained at the interview during visit 1 will be re-assessed. Weight is measured and hemodynamic profile is assessed using USCOM BP+. It will take approximately 10 -15 min to obtain the above data. Visit 3 (after 34 weeks' gestation) During this visit, any change of data obtained at the interview during visit 2 will be re-assessed. Weight is measured and hemodynamic profile is assessed using USCOM BP+. It will take approximately 10 -15 min to obtain the above data. Visit 4 (6 months postpartum) During this visit, any change of data obtained at the interview during visit 3 will be re-assessed. Weight is measured and hemodynamic profile is assessed using USCOM BP+. A retinal image is taken, TANITA bioimpedance scale is used to assess segmental fat distribution. A fasting blood sample is taken to assess blood glucose and lipids. It will take approximately 25 - 30 min to obtain the above data. Exposure group: Women with 2 or more risk factors will be allocated to group 2 (Exposure group).