Leaders raise concern over rising preeclampsia deaths in Masindi
“If I had not gone to the hospital in time, I would not be alive today. Some people told me it was witchcraft, but the doctors helped me and my babies survived,” she said.
Masindi: In response to a growing number of preeclampsia cases among expectant mothers, Imarisha Dada Uganda, in partnership with Masindi General Hospital, has launched a district-wide awareness campaign aimed at reducing the prevalence of the life-threatening pregnancy complication.
Preeclampsia is a serious condition characterized by high blood pressure and signs of organ damage, usually developing after 20 weeks of pregnancy. If left untreated, it can threaten the lives of both the mother and the unborn child. Common symptoms include severe headaches, vision problems, swelling of the face, hands, or feet, upper abdominal pain, and sudden weight gain.
The campaign was launched during celebrations marking World Preeclampsia Day, observed annually on May 22 to raise awareness about the condition. Activities included a community walk through the streets of Masindi Town and health education sessions for women attending antenatal care services at the hospital.
Speaking during the event, Dr. Rogers Musinguzi, the Masindi hospital Medical Superintendent said preeclampsia remains a major public health challenge both globally and in Uganda.
According to Dr. Musinguzi, Masindi Hospital records up to 20 cases of preeclampsia every month, with some resulting in the deaths of mothers, babies, or both.
“Preeclampsia is one of the leading causes of illness and death among pregnant women in Uganda. However, it can be detected and managed if mothers attend antenatal care early and consistently,” he said.
He urged expectant mothers to utilize government health facilities, stressing that there is no justification for missing antenatal visits because healthcare workers are available to provide support and screening services.
Dr. Musinguzi also noted that some women mistakenly attribute symptoms of preeclampsia to witchcraft, delaying treatment and increasing risks. He explained that women above 35 years, teenagers below 20 years, first-time mothers, and those with a family history of the condition face a higher risk.
Masindi District Health Educator Mudu Michael called on families and communities to support pregnant women in seeking timely medical care.
He cited stigma, transport challenges, lack of family support, and misleading information from some spiritual leaders as key barriers preventing mothers from accessing health services.
“We shall continue sensitizing communities across the district because many mothers are still not getting the information they need,” he said.
Meanwhile, Annette Birungi said the organization initiated the campaign after recognizing the devastating impact of preeclampsia on mothers and newborns.
She explained that awareness activities will extend to communities and health centres to improve understanding of the condition and encourage early detection.
“We need to change perceptions and increase awareness so mothers can seek help early. Through our partnership with health workers, we believe we can reduce the burden of this condition,” Birungi said.
Proscovia Flora Isingoma also called for intensified public education, noting that ignorance about preeclampsia continues to cost lives.
A survivor of the condition, Sharon Munguriek, shared her experience, saying she and her twins survived because she sought medical care early.
“If I had not gone to the hospital in time, I would not be alive today. Some people told me it was witchcraft, but the doctors helped me and my babies survived,” she said.
Health officials and partners hope the campaign will increase awareness, improve antenatal care attendance, and ultimately reduce maternal and newborn deaths linked to preeclampsia in Masindi District.
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