Assistant Professor, Dept. of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado School of Medicine
- Chair, Perinatal Epidemiology Research Group
MD, (MB, BCh, BAO) University College Medical School, Dublin, Ireland
2007 Center for Women’s Health Research Junior Faculty Research Development Award
"Although most pregnancies end with the happy arrival of a new baby, some do not, and these situations can be devastating for the mother and her baby. Preeclampsia, a hypertensive disease of pregnancy, is undoubtedly associated with long term health consequences for the mother and baby. A miscarriage or stillbirth carries devastating emotional consequences for the mother and her family as well. Preterm birth is yet another major pregnancy-related complication, linked with long term neurological and medical problems for the mother and baby. I have encountered these situations clinically and now I feel the pain of these events through my data. This is what motivates me to do my research in pregnancy."
What is the Research Goal?
Dr. Lynch’s research goal is to make an impact on this field of research by determining the factors in early pregnancy that contribute to such adverse outcomes, such as preeclampsia.
Understanding the Research
Dr. Lynch’s research has shown a link between inflammation in early pregnancy and the development of preeclampsia later in pregnancy. Preeclampsia is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease later in the life of a woman. Inflammation is also linked with adverse cardiovascular events and heart disease, which is a leading cause of death among women. Dr. Lynch’s research has also demonstrated a significant relationship between obesity and preeclampsia. The results of her research shows that it is important to intervene early in the life of a woman to educate her about her risk and to suggest lifestyle modifications, i.e. weight loss or increased physical activity that will reduce her risk of cardiovascular problems later in life.