Which of the following is a risk factor for preeclampsia?

• A. Obesity
• B. Smoking
• C. Hypertension
• D. Increased iron intake

Answer: (C)

Preeclampsia risk rises with preexisting hypertension because existing high blood pressure signals vascular dysfunction that makes placental blood flow less stable. Preeclampsia develops from abnormal placentation and subsequent endothelial dysfunction, leading to vasoconstriction and rising blood pressure after mid-pregnancy. When a mother already has chronic hypertension, the placenta is more likely to experience impaired perfusion and the body more readily shifts toward the hypertensive, proteinuric syndrome of preeclampsia. Among the listed options, this preexisting condition most directly predisposes to developing preeclampsia.