Aug 5, 2026 - News
High blood pressure during pregnancy is rising in Minnesota
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Rates of high blood pressure during pregnancy have soared in Minnesota and across the country, according to new CDC data.
Why it matters: High blood pressure is associated with serious complications for mom and baby.
By the numbers: More than one in 10 Minnesota mothers who gave birth in 2024 had gestational hypertension (a category that includes preeclampsia).
- Minnesota's rate rose from 6.7% in 2016 to 13% — a 94% increase.
Between the lines: Rates rose within every age and BMI group studied, suggesting that older maternal age and higher BMI alone don't fully explain the increase.
- The CDC report doesn't identify a specific cause.