129. More than half of pregnant women are in poor health
Dr. David Geier is an orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist in Charleston, South Carolina and Charlotte, North Carolina. He helps athletes and active people feel and perform their best, regardless of age, injuries and medical history. He has been featured in major media publications and shows over 2,500 times throughout his career.
Well over half of women who become pregnant start their pregnancies in poor health, according to a new study published in the journal Circulation. Researchers at Northwestern collected data on pre-pregnancy heart health risk factors for more than 14 million women. They found that roughly three out of five newly pregnant women already had high blood pressure, diabetes or obesity. In some states, especially Midwestern and Southern states, the rates of these pre-pregnancy heart risks were even higher. These medical conditions are important, as babies born to mothers with high blood pressure, diabetes, or obesity may be born early. According to the American Heart Association, about one-quarter of pregnancy-related deaths are due to heart disease.
Through the stories of a dozen athletes whose injuries and recovery advanced the field (including Joan Benoit, Michael Jordan, Brandi Chastain, and Tommy John), Dr. Geier explains how sports medicine makes sports safer for the pros, amateurs, student-athletes, and weekend warriors alike.
