Molecular link between air pollution and pregnancy risks

Molecular link between air pollution and pregnancy risks

A new study by Emory University researchers, published Thursday in Environmental Science & Technology, found that exposure to the tiny particles in air pollution during pregnancy can disrupt maternal metabolisms, altering key biological pathways. These changes were associated with increased risk of various negative birth outcomes, including premature birth. The study, which analyzed blood samples … Read more

Study of 1.2+M births reveals associations between excess heat exposure and preterm births

Study of 1.2+M births reveals associations between excess heat exposure and preterm births

In the face of increasing temperatures globally, a new Monash-led study of 1.2 million births in Sydney over two decades has shown a strong association between the risk of pre-term birth and exposure to extreme hot temperatures in the third trimester of pregnancy. The data suggested that this association with extreme temperature might be reduced … Read more

Exposure to air pollution while in the womb is linked to adverse changes in cell processes in new-born babies

Exposure to air pollution while in the womb is linked to adverse changes in cell processes in new-born babies

Exposure to air pollution while in the womb is linked to alterations in proteins that can be detected after a baby is born, and which affect cell processes such as autophagy, the “self-eating” of damaged cells that occurs in response to stress. Dr Olga Gorlanova, a research physician at the University Children’s Hospital, University of … Read more

Mums exposed to air pollution give birth to smaller babies, but living in a greener area may mitigate the risks

Mums exposed to air pollution give birth to smaller babies, but living in a greener area may mitigate the risks

Women exposed to air pollution give birth to smaller babies, according to research that will be presented at the European Respiratory Society International Congress in Milan, Italy. The research also shows that women living in greener areas give birth to bigger babies and this may help counteract the effects of pollution. There is a strong … Read more