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Cigarette consumption and serum cotinine in relation to birthweight
British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology
|July 1, 1987
Summary
Serum cotinine levels, a nicotine metabolite, better predict low birthweight in pregnant women than self-reported smoking. Higher cotinine levels in expectant mothers correlate with significantly lower infant birth weights.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Clinical Chemistry
- Public Health
Background:
- Maternal smoking during pregnancy is a leading cause of low birthweight.
- Accurate assessment of smoking exposure is crucial for effective intervention.
- Self-reported smoking may underestimate actual nicotine exposure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the predictive accuracy of serum cotinine levels versus self-reported smoking for low birthweight.
- To evaluate serum cotinine as a biomarker for monitoring smoking in pregnant women.
Main Methods:
- Serum cotinine concentrations were measured in 4211 pregnant women between 15-21 weeks gestation.
- Smoking history (cigarettes per day) was self-reported by participants.
- Correlation between cotinine levels, smoking history, and infant birthweight was analyzed.
Main Results:
- Both serum cotinine and self-reported smoking were significantly associated with reduced birthweight.
- Serum cotinine levels demonstrated a stronger correlation with low birthweight compared to self-reported smoking.
- Infants born to mothers in the top 2.7% for cotinine levels were 441g lighter than those in the lowest 68%.
Conclusions:
- Serum cotinine is a more reliable biomarker than self-reported smoking for assessing nicotine exposure and its impact on birthweight.
- Cotinine measurement can effectively monitor smoking cessation or reduction during pregnancy.
- Findings reinforce the link between smoking and adverse birth outcomes.