New Rapid Test Revolutionizes Pre-Eclampsia Screening for Pregnant Women

Expectant mothers in Kenya can now look forward to a significant breakthrough in prenatal care thanks to a new, rapid test that promises to enhance the early detection of pre-eclampsia. The Test-it Protein-Creatinine (PrCr) Urine Dipstick Test, developed by LifeAssay Diagnostics in South Africa and introduced by Labflow Kenya, is a game-changer in managing this serious pregnancy complication.

Preeclampsia, marked by high blood pressure and protein in the urine after 20 weeks of pregnancy, poses substantial risks to both mother and baby. Left untreated, it can lead to severe complications including eclampsia, which is a leading cause of maternal and infant mortality worldwide. The risk of preeclampsia-related death is alarmingly higher in developing countries compared to their developed counterparts, with the National Library of Medicine noting a staggering 300-fold difference in mortality rates.

The PrCr test offers a rapid and accurate solution to this issue. Unlike traditional urine dipsticks that measure only protein levels, the PrCr test evaluates the protein-to-creatinine ratio in urine, a more precise indicator of preeclampsia. This advancement addresses the limitation of traditional tests which often struggle with accuracy due to variations in urine dilution. The results from the PrCr test are available within 60 seconds, facilitated by an easy-to-read colorimetric scale that supports swift clinical decisions.

The affordability and practicality of the PrCr test make it a promising tool for widespread use. A single test kit costs Sh75, and a bulk pack of 50 tests is priced at Sh3,750. The test does not require traditional laboratory equipment and can be used in various settings without specific storage needs. This accessibility is crucial for improving antenatal care, particularly in areas with limited resources.

A recent pilot study conducted across five Kenyan counties revealed that the PrCr test significantly enhances preeclampsia detection. The study, which involved over 2,000 pregnant women in Nairobi, found that the test increased detection rates by 53 percent. More impressively, it boosted detection by 80 to 500 percent in other areas, demonstrating its potential for early diagnosis and timely intervention.

The pilot study also highlighted that about 9.5 percent of mothers screened tested positive for proteinuria within one month, with a notable incidence among teenage mothers. This underscores the need for targeted screening efforts in this demographic to ensure early detection and management.

Kyle Pereira, a pharmacist at Labflow Kenya, emphasizes the significance of the PrCr test. “The Test-it PrCr test strips stand out due to their affordability, simplicity, and suitability for point-of-care use. The inclusion of creatinine in the test enhances its accuracy compared to traditional protein-only dipsticks, making it a valuable tool for early preeclampsia detection.”

However, Mr. Pereira points out that the effectiveness of the PrCr test depends on healthcare workers’ knowledge of preeclampsia diagnosis and management. While the test shows promise, its benefits can only be fully realized with proper training and understanding of its use.

The need for improved preeclampsia screening is urgent, given that hypertensive disorders contribute to approximately 14 percent of maternal deaths globally, with the majority occurring in low- and middle-income countries. In Kenya, up to 9 percent of pregnancies develop preeclampsia, and about 6 percent of these cases require hospitalization due to severe conditions.

Addressing the disparities in maternal health care access is critical to reducing mortality rates. Strengthening health infrastructure, training healthcare workers, and raising community awareness about maternal health issues are essential steps toward improving outcomes for vulnerable populations.

The introduction of the PrCr test represents a significant advancement in preeclampsia screening. Its rapid, accurate, and affordable nature makes it a promising tool for enhancing maternal health care in Kenya and beyond. With continued efforts to improve healthcare access and training, this innovation has the potential to save lives and improve outcomes for expectant mothers and their babies.