Maternal Smoking during Pregnancy and its effects on Neural Tube Defects
View abstract on PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.Parental smoking, including passive exposure, significantly increases the risk of Neural Tube Defects (NTDs). Quitting smoking is advised for expectant mothers and fathers to reduce NTD incidence.
Area Of Science
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Pediatrics
- Public Health
Background
- Maternal smoking is a known teratogen, but its specific link to Neural Tube Defects (NTDs) requires clarification.
- Congenital malformations, including NTDs, represent a significant public health concern.
Purpose Of The Study
- To systematically review and investigate the association between parental smoking and the incidence of Neural Tube Defects (NTDs).
Main Methods
- A systematic review adhering to PRISMA criteria was conducted from February 2015 to August 2022.
- Clinical articles were selected from PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases.
- Data on NTDs, parental smoking habits, and related factors were extracted from included studies.
Main Results
- Eight articles were included, revealing a significant association between parental smoking and increased NTD occurrence.
- Both maternal (active/passive) and paternal smoking were linked to higher NTD rates.
- Smoking impacts folic acid levels and other essential nutrients like zinc, crucial for neural tube closure.
Conclusions
- Parental smoking is a potent teratogenic factor contributing to NTDs.
- Reducing NTD prevalence necessitates cessation of smoking by both mothers and fathers.
- Public health initiatives should focus on parental smoking cessation to prevent NTDs.
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