A new public awareness initiative has been launched to educate expectant mothers and healthcare providers about Peripartum Cardiomyopathy ( PPCM ), a rare but serious form of heart failure that can occur during pregnancy or up to six months after childbirth.
This effort is inspired by the memory of Kayla, who lost her life to PPCM.
Her family has chosen to honor her by advocating for increased awareness and access to B-type Natriuretic Peptide ( BNP ) testing, which can aid early detection of heart failure during pregnancy.
Peripartum Cardiomyopathy is a form of dilated cardiomyopathy in which the heart becomes
enlarged and weakened, leading to reduced pumping efficiency. The condition can present with subtle symptoms, often mistaken for normal pregnancy-related changes. BNP testing is a simple blood test that helps identify potential heart failure, allowing timely medical intervention and treatment.
Currently, some pregnant women may not have insurance coverage for BNP testing, which can cost between $50 and $150.00. By raising awareness and promoting broader access to BNP testing, families and healthcare providers can collaborate to enhance maternal health outcomes.
Kayla's story underscores the importance of early detection and proactive care. Our mission is to ensure expectant mothers are informed about PPCM and have access to essential tests like BNP, which can make a difference in saving lives.