Assessing the Risks of Prenatal Radiation: Effects on Pregnancy and Neonatal Development

Prenatal radiation exposure raises significant concerns regarding its effects on pregnancy and neonatal health, particularly regarding increased risks of adverse outcomes. This study aims to evaluate these risks and their association with varying radiation doses.

To assess the impact of prenatal radiation exposure on pregnancy outcomes and neonatal development among pregnant women in Bangladesh.

A sample of 120 pregnant women was recruited from Bangladesh Medical College Hospital and other private hospitals between 2023 and 2024. Participants were classified by age, gestational age at exposure, and type of radiation received. Key outcomes measured included miscarriages, preterm births, congenital anomalies, low birth weight, and neurodevelopmental delays, categorized into three exposure groups: <100 mGy, 100-200 mGy, and >200 mGy.

The study found a clear dose-dependent relationship between radiation exposure and adverse outcomes. Among the <100 mGy group, there were 2 miscarriages and 2 congenital anomalies. In the 100-200 mGy group, there were 6 miscarriages and 8 congenital anomalies, while the >200 mGy group exhibited the highest rates with 10 miscarriages and 10 congenital anomalies. Additionally, average birth weights decreased with higher exposure levels: 3200 g in the <100 mGy group compared to 2800 g in the >200 mGy group.

These findings highlight the critical need for careful assessment and management of radiation exposure during pregnancy to minimize risks to maternal and fetal health. The study underscores the importance of informed decision-making and adherence to radiation safety protocols in clinical practice.