Epidemiology
Placental abruption complicates about 0.3% to 1% of births.[3][4] These incidences for the most part are based on epidemiological studies from medical records and birth certificate data. However, the incidence varies according to the criteria used for the diagnosis. If the placenta is routinely examined by a pathologist, a higher incidence of abruption is reported.[5] Furthermore, small abruptions may not be recognised by the delivering physician.
The incidence of abruption rose slightly in the US between 1979 and 2001, although this may have been the consequence of improved ascertainment.[6] The incidence rose more in black women than in white women.[6]
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