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Assessment and Evaluation of the High Risk Neonate: The NICU Network Neurobehavioral Scale
Published on: August 25, 2014
Pregnancy, smoking and birth outcomes
Ali Delpisheh1, Loretta Brabin, Bernard J Brabin
1Child and Reproductive Health Group, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Pembroke Place, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK. B.J.Brabin@liv.ac.uk.
Women'S Health (London, England)
|October 7, 2009
Summary
Maternal smoking during pregnancy significantly impacts birth outcomes, causing lower birth weights and increased risks for infants. Interventions are crucial to mitigate these adverse effects.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Public Health
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Maternal smoking during pregnancy is prevalent, particularly among adolescents and lower socioeconomic groups.
- It is the leading modifiable risk factor for adverse birth outcomes, including intrauterine growth restriction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the epidemiology and consequences of maternal smoking during pregnancy.
- To emphasize the adverse effects on birth outcomes and discuss potential interventions.
Main Methods:
- This review synthesizes findings from epidemiological studies and meta-analyses.
- It examines the impact of smoking on birth weight, preterm birth, and placental complications.
- Genetic factors influencing nicotine metabolism and their role in birth outcomes are also considered.
Main Results:
- Maternal smoking is linked to a significant reduction in mean birth weight (174g) and a higher risk of low birth weight (29-39% attributable risk in the UK).
- It also increases the risk of preterm birth, placental abruption, abortion, and placenta previa.
- Infants born to smoking mothers face elevated risks of respiratory issues, asthma, obesity, and behavioral disorders, with effects potentially dose-dependent.
Conclusions:
- Maternal smoking during pregnancy poses substantial risks to fetal development and infant health.
- Genetic variations can modify the impact of nicotine exposure on birth outcomes.
- Effective interventions are necessary to reduce maternal smoking rates and improve pregnancy outcomes.
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