Calcium Supplement 'Halves the Risk of Pre-Eclampsia'

Pregnant women who take calcium can cut by half the risk of developing the potentially fatal condition, pre-eclampsia.

Thousands of mothers and babies in Britain are affected every year by the condition, which is related to high blood pressure. Its exact cause is not known and treating it is notoriously difficult.

A review of 12 previous studies, carried out by the Cochrane Collaboration, an international provider of health care information, has found that taking a one gram calcium supplement every day during pregnancy can cut the risk, especially for women not getting enough calcium in their diets.

The review found no adverse effects of taking the supplements but said a bigger study was needed to determine the ideal dose.

Charlotte Davies of the baby charity, Tommy's, said "The supplement has a beneficial effect for all pregnant women, but it was most pronounced in those women at high risk of developing the condition and those with inadequate level of calcium in their diet."

Pre-eclampsia can be fatal for mother and baby, and can progress rapidly. It is characterized by high blood pressure and protein in the urine. Symptoms can include swelling in the hands, face or feet, weight gain, headaches and blurred vision.

The condition can cause damage to the mother's lungs, liver and kidneys and lead to strokes.
The Daily Telegraph, 21st July 2006