Ambient Air Pollution is a New Toxin that Affects Preterm Birth and Low Birth Weight

Urbanization and industrialization in both developing and developed countries have increased environmental toxins, such as PM2.5, PM10, NO2, and ozone, that can affect a fetus in utero.

The present study determined the association of ambient air pollution exposure with prematurity and low birth weight.

The study found-

• Recruitment of 1155 deliveries. 
• A significant association between PM2.5 exposure and preterm birth during the first trimester. 
• A significant association between ozone exposure and preterm birth during the second trimester. 
• A significant association between NO2 exposure and preterm birth during the first and second trimesters. 
• A significant association between Maternal PM2.5 exposure during the first trimester and low birth weight. 
• A significant association between PM10 exposure during the first trimester and low birth weight.

This study highlights a direct relationship between ambient air pollution exposure and pregnancy outcomes such as preterm birth and low birth weight.

Bhardwaj N, Nigam A, De A. et al. Ambient Air Pollution: A New Intrauterine Environmental Toxin for Preterm Birth and Low Birth Weight. J Obstet Gynecol India. 2023. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13224-023-01790-8