Action on Pre-eclampsia (APEC) has welcomed the Scottish Government’s announcement of dedicated funding for pre-eclampsia testing in every Health Board – helping to protect thousands of pregnant mothers and babies in Scotland.
This means that, for the first time, expectant mothers in Scotland will soon have access to placental growth factor (PlGF) testing, a simple blood test to help diagnose pre-eclampsia that has been available in England since 2016.
Pre-eclampsia is a potentially devastating pregnancy complication that can prove fatal for both mother and baby if not identified early and carefully monitored. It remains one of the two main causes of maternal death worldwide,[1] and in Scotland, an estimated 5,260 pregnant people present with suspected pre-eclampsia every year.[2]
Despite guidance from the Scottish Health Technologies Group in 2023, Health Boards have failed to implement PlGF-based testing, citing the lack of funding as a key barrier.
This new dedicated Government funding marks a victory for APEC’s Clark’s Campaign, led by bereaved parents Ami and Stuart Geddes to ensure that PlGF-based testing is available in Scotland for every pregnant woman who needs it.
In January 2021, baby Clark Geddes had to be delivered at just 24 weeks, after his mum Ami became life-threateningly ill with pre-eclampsia during her pregnancy. Tragically, Clark died just 12 days later.
The campaigners met with First Minister John Swinney on 8th August 2024 to discuss the need to secure access to testing across Scotland.
Marcus Green, Chief Executive of Action on Pre-eclampsia said: “Nearly 18 months after PlGF-based testing for pre-eclampsia was recommended for use in Scotland, it’s welcome to see that the Scottish Government is now funding its implementation across the nation.
“There is no doubt that access to this testing will help save the lives of mothers and babies across Scotland, finally giving them the care that they need.
“We launched Clark’s campaign with Ami and Stuart Geddes in memory of their little boy, so that no other parent would have to endure the tragedy of losing a baby to pre-eclampsia.
“It’s because of them and all the other families like them that this result matters so much. We’re proud that our years of campaigning have come to fruition and thank everyone who has supported us.
“Heath Boards must now ensure that this funding is put to use by taking steps to implement PlGF-based testing in their areas.”
Stuart Geddes, Clark’s Campaign lead, said: “When Ami and I had Clark, he was perfect – but his lungs just weren’t strong enough and he tragically passed away. Since then, we’ve campaigned to get proper pre-eclampsia testing for women in Scotland who really need it.
“It’s brilliant news that the Scottish Government is going to fund this thanks to Clark’s Campaign. We could not be prouder that our little man’s life will be saving the lives of mums and babies right here in his own country.”
Scottish Conservative Deputy Health spokesperson Tess White MSP said: “After raising PlGF testing at First Minister’s Questions and then meeting with the First Minister, I am delighted after all this time that the Scottish Government will fund this life-saving test.
“Implementation in Scotland is long overdue – PlGF testing is available in 95% of NHS trusts in England and has been offered since 2016.
“We know that NHS Tayside intends to introduce the test within a year, but this funding must expedite its implementation across all health boards.
“I pay tribute to campaigners who shared their deeply moving stories about the devastating impact of pre-eclampsia, and to APEC for its tireless activism on this vital issue.
“It’s down to the courage and hard work of campaigners that women across Scotland will soon be able to access this life-saving test.
“I will continue to monitor implementation very closely to ensure all health boards are on track with delivery.”
Monica Lennon, MSP for Central Scotland said: “This is a momentous victory for a campaign that united parents, politicians and experts with the sole aim of making life-saving pre-eclampsia testing available throughout Scotland.
“This major breakthrough is also a bittersweet moment for families whose lives have been changed forever by pre-eclampsia.
“In particular, I pay tribute to Lynsey and Bradley, parents of Carys and to the parents of Clark, Ami and Stuart.
“Scotland must never forget these babies and how their stories spurred the Scottish Government into action following a pivotal Bute House summit.
“I thank John Swinney for listening to Action on Pre-eclampsia and doing the right thing. The swift rollout of PlGF-based testing in every Scottish health board is now essential and will be a cause for celebration.”
For more information or support, please visit: www.action-on-pre-eclampsia.org.uk.