Chaniece's Story: Pregnancy & Preeclampsia
In her pregnancy’s 32nd week, she was induced after experiencing common symptoms like headaches and high blood pressure.
Updated: May 28, 2025
The critical value of early risk assessment in Preeclampsia
Around the United States and the world, women and their babies face potentially life-threatening outcomes from preeclampsia – a dangerous pregnancy complication that can affect anyone, but disproportionately impacts Black mothers and women over 35. Timely risk assessment could make the difference between life and death.
Anthony Wallace, Chaniece’s beloved widower, shares his family’s personal story and an important message for women about the signs and symptoms of preeclampsia.
In her pregnancy's 32nd week, Chaniece Wallace, M.D., was induced after experiencing common symptoms like headaches and high blood pressure. Despite being a physician herself, the rapid and unexpected progression of her condition led to tragic consequences that might have been prevented with better risk assessment.
Beyond symptoms: The value of objective risk assessment
Preeclampsia is characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to another organ system, most often the liver and kidneys. It typically begins after 20 weeks of pregnancy in women whose blood pressure has been normal.
While clinical symptoms remain important indicators, they often appear late in disease progression. Modern risk-assessment tools, such as the sFlt-1/PlGF ratio, can help identify patients at highest risk for severe complications before symptoms become life-threatening, allowing for:
- Earlier intervention when it matters most
- More confident clinical decision-making1,2
- Appropriate resource allocation to high-risk patients1
- Reduced anxiety for patients identified as lower risk1
Empowering through knowledge
Education, awareness, and advanced risk-assessment tools are essential to meeting patient needs. By combining personal vigilance with such clinical tools, we can work toward ensuring more mothers like Chaniece survive to raise their children.
Disclaimer: This content is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice or professional services. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, and those seeking personal medical advice should consult with a licensed physician. Always seek the advice of your doctor or another qualified health provider regarding a medical condition.
References
- Rana, et al. Angiogenic biomarkers in triage and risk for preeclampsia with severe features. Preg Hypten 2018; 13:100-106.
- Khosla, et al. Cost effectiveness of the sFlt1/PlGF ratio test as an adjunct to the current practice of evaluating suspected preeclampsia in the United States, Pregn Hyperten 2021; 26:121-126.