In the WHO classification of maternal cardiovascular risk, Group I corresponds to which level of mortality and morbidity risk?

• A. Mortality and morbidity risk the same as the general population
• B. Slightly increased risk
• C. High risk requiring specialized care
• D. Unknown risk

Answer: (A)

Group I means there is no detectable increase in mortality or morbidity from pregnancy compared with the general population. In this group, cardiovascular disease does not add risk during pregnancy, so outcomes are similar to those in women without heart disease. Patients typically have no symptoms or only very stable, non-significant disease and can usually be managed with routine obstetric care. The classification moves up to higher risk levels if there is even mild to moderate symptoms or functional limitation, requiring closer cardiology involvement, with Group II for slightly increased risk, Group III for high risk needing specialized care, Group IV where pregnancy is contraindicated, and Group V for unknown risk.