Air pollution, ambient temperature, green space and preterm birth

Area of Science:

• Environmental Health
• Reproductive Epidemiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Preterm birth is a leading cause of child mortality globally.
• Survivors face long-term health risks, including adult morbidities.
• Environmental factors like air pollution and temperature are implicated in preterm birth risk.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current evidence on maternal exposure to air pollution and ambient temperatures and preterm birth risk.
• To explore the potential protective role of green space.
• To identify gaps and suggest future research directions.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent studies on environmental exposures and preterm birth.
• Synthesis of findings on particulate matter, temperature, and green space.
• Analysis of potential biological mechanisms and sensitive pregnancy periods.

Main Results:

• Particulate matter exposure may increase preterm birth risk, though effect size is unclear.
• Both heat and cold are linked to increased preterm birth risk, with stronger evidence for heat.
• Green space can reduce air pollution and mitigate urban heat, potentially lowering preterm birth risk.

Conclusions:

• Pregnant women face increasing risks from temperature extremes and air pollution in urbanizing environments.
• Green infrastructure may offer a mitigation strategy.
• More research is required to clarify personal exposure, biological mechanisms, and the efficacy of green infrastructure.