Awareness and associated factors of pregnancy-induced hypertension among pregnant women in Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Introduction: Pregnancy-Induced hypertension (PIH) remains a major contributor to maternal and fetal illness and death. Enhancing knowledge and implementing preventive measures for PIH among pregnant women is crucial for achieving positive health outcomes. This study explored the level of knowledge and the associated factors among pregnant women in Africa. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted on June, 2025, using international electronic databases including PubMed, Google Scholar, Hinari, Medline, and Open Google to assess the pooled awareness of pregnancy-induced hypertension and its associated factors among pregnant women. Two authors independently screened and extracted relevant data from the eligible studies. The collected data were compiled in Excel and subsequently analyzed using STATA version 11. Heterogeneity among the studies was assessed using the I² statistic, while potential small study effects were evaluated through graphical methods and Egger's test, with a significance threshold set at 5%. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were also performed. Result: A total of eight studies met the inclusion criteria and were incorporated into the systematic review and meta-analysis. The meta-analysis revealed significant associations between PIH knowledge and several factors: educational status (AOR = 4.88, 95% CI: 1.73-13.79), history of previous births (OR = 2.04, 95% CI: 1.30-3.19), and employment status (OR = 2.85, 95% CI: 1.26-6.44). However, due to the limited number of studies addressing each specific variable, the evidence was insufficient to establish conclusive links between PIH knowledge and other factors such as primi gravida status, socioeconomic status, maternal age, sources of information, marital status, maternal nutrition, antenatal care attendance, place of residence, and other related variables. Conclusion: Awareness of PIH is typically lower among women with a personal or family history of the condition, first-time mothers (primiparous women), and those with limited educational attainment, compared to their respective counterparts. To address this gap, increased investment in women's health is essential, with healthcare providers giving particular attention to those at higher risk due to limited PIH knowledge. Moreover, targeted interventions should aim to improve educational opportunities for women and raise awareness about the risk factors associated with PIH.