[Adverse maternal and infant health effects caused by barium exposure during pregnancy]

As a common environmental chemical with a wide range of uses and diverse exposure pathways, barium poses potential threats to human health. Exposure to barium during pregnancy, in particular, has been found to have adverse effects on maternal and infant health and has become a major public health concern. Based on existing research findings, this article provides a comprehensive analysis of the sources of barium exposure, the association between gestational barium exposure and pregnancy complications or adverse pregnancy outcomes, its impact on birth outcomes and growth and development among children, and the possible biological mechanisms. The aim is to provide theoretical support and references needed to formulate effective public health strategies that mitigate the harm caused by barium exposure to maternal and infant health.