Reference values of body mass at. birth among native northern population of Russia

Area of Science:

• Anthropology
• Human Genetics
• Pediatrics

Background:

• Infant mortality and morbidity are linked to deviations in birth body mass from population norms.
• Phenotypic stability suggests the inheritance of adaptive genotypes, while deviations indicate vulnerability.
• Environmental adaptation over centuries shapes unique population phenotypes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate reference values for birth body mass in indigenous populations of the Kola Peninsula, Siberia, Far East, and Urals.
• To identify how long-term adaptation to distinct environmental conditions influences newborn anthropometric parameters.
• To compare birth weight reference values between populations from arctic, monsoon, and moderate climate zones.

Main Methods:

• Comparative analysis of birth body mass data from indigenous populations across diverse climate zones.
• Identification of reference values for birth weight in specific ethnic groups, including the Arctic Saami and Far East Nanais.
• Assessment of phenotypic variations in newborns as indicators of adaptation to environmental factors.

Main Results:

• The Arctic Saami and Far East Nanais populations exhibited birth weight reference values that were notably distinct from other studied groups.
• Indigenous populations demonstrated unique newborn phenotype complexes resulting from prolonged adaptation to specific environmental conditions.
• Significant differences in newborn birth weight parameters were observed between populations from arctic/monsoon zones and the moderate climate zone.

Conclusions:

• Birth body mass reference values vary significantly among indigenous populations, reflecting adaptation to diverse climatic conditions.
• The Arctic Saami and Far East Nanais serve as key examples of populations with distinct anthropometric characteristics due to environmental pressures.
• Understanding these population-specific reference values is crucial for assessing infant health and adaptation in different ecological settings.