Project title: Impact of Maternal Urine Profiling: Advancing Preeclampsia Management and Cardiovascular Health
Funding period: Jan 2025 – Dec 2026
Lead Researcher: Dr Chia-Chi Liu

Preeclampsia is a dangerous pregnancy complication that affects millions of women worldwide. It causes high blood pressure and puts severe strain on the mother’s heart and organs, leading to life-threatening risks for both mother and baby. 

Each year, preeclampsia is responsible for over 500,000 fetal and newborn deaths and more than 70,000 maternal deaths. Even for those who survive, the risks don’t end after pregnancy. Mothers who have had preeclampsia face a higher chance of stroke, heart disease, and diabetes later in life. Babies born to mothers with preeclampsia are more likely to be born too early and may face lifelong challenges, including developmental delays and heart problems. 

Despite how serious preeclampsia is, treatment remains a challenge. Doctors must be cautious with blood pressure medications to avoid harming the baby, and diagnosing preeclampsia often happens too late—after complications have already begun. 

But that could soon change. 

Leading preeclampsia expert Dr. Chia-Chi Liu is working on a groundbreaking research project that could revolutionise the way preeclampsia is detected and managed. Her goal is to develop a simple urine test that can detect preeclampsia early—before symptoms become severe. This would allow doctors to take action sooner, giving mothers and babies a much better chance of staying healthy. 

The impact of this research could be life-changing, especially for women in low-resource areas where advanced medical tests aren’t available. A low-cost, non-invasive urine test could make early screening possible for millions of women worldwide, helping to prevent serious complications and save lives. 

With this breakthrough, safer pregnancies and healthier families could soon be a reality for women everywhere. 

Currently, diagnosing preeclampsia often occurs after the condition has progressed, increasing
the risk of complications for both mothers and babies. This study aims to develop a simple urine test that can
detect preeclampsia early, allowing doctors to identify and treat the condition before serious health issues
arise.