DOI: https://doi.org/10.36347/sasjm.2025.v11i06.009

Pages: 638-650

Introduction: The concentration of various trace elements that are metabolically bound undergoes significant variation throughout pregnancy. This study aimed to determine variations in serum trace element concentrations in pregnant women who developed preeclampsia in Kisangani. Methods: From January 9th to September 9th, 2023, we conducted a prospective cohort study of pregnant women attending first-trimester antenatal clinics at eight health facilities in Kisangani. The sample size was 636 people. Concentrations of trace elements in sera were analysed using an Agilent 7700X inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer (ICP-MS). The data were entered into a computer using Microsoft Excel 2021. Statistical analysis was performed using R software, version 4.3.0. Results: 73.9% of pregnant women were aged between 20 and 34, with an average age of 26.5 ± 6.3 years. The Trace element averages were as follows: for calcium in the first, second and third trimesters: 2.1±0.9, 1.8±0.6 and 1.8±0.6 mmol/l, and 1.4±0.6 mmol/l at diagnosis. For copper in the first, second and third trimesters: 9.6±2.5, 12.8±1.2 and 12.8±1.2 micromol/l and 12.9±1.3 micromol/l at diagnosis. For selenium and zinc: 0.7±0.3 and 11.2±3.1 micromol/l in the first trimester, 0.6±0.2 and 10.0±2.8 micromol/l in the second trimester, 0.5 ± 0.2 and 9.6 ± 2.5 micromol/l in the third trimester and 0.5±0.2 and 8.7±2.5micromol/l at the time of diagnosis. Conclusion: Fluctuations in serum trace element concentrations vary according to the period of pregnancy, in line with the progressively increasing micronutrient requirements for maternal-fetal well-being and the maintenance of a successful pregnancy.