Maternal Risk Factors, Preterm Birth, and Future Cardiovascular Disease: A Narrative Literature Review.

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Cardiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Preterm birth (PTB) poses a significant global health challenge.
• The association between maternal risk factors (mRFs), PTB, and future cardiovascular disease (fCVD) is not well understood.
• Existing literature lacks comprehensive analysis of lifestyle interventions for PTB and fCVD.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current status of PTB.
• To analyze the role of maternal risk factors and lifestyle interventions in PTB and fCVD.
• To explore the link between mRFs, PTB, adverse pregnancy outcomes, and fCVD.

Main Methods:

• Narrative review and interpretive analysis.
• Literature search on PubMed using keywords: 'maternal,' 'risk factor,' 'lifestyle,' 'preterm birth,' and 'CVD.'
• Interpretation informed by extensive clinical experience, analyzing approximately 180 articles.

Main Results:

• Over 50 modifiable and non-modifiable mRFs contribute to PTB and recurrent PTB.
• Major mRFs are pivotal in developing fCVD in mothers and newborns.
• fCVD origins involve mRFs, adverse pregnancy outcomes (APO), and adverse neonate outcomes (ANO), with potential mechanisms including lipid disorders, atherosclerosis, and DNA methylation.

Conclusions:

• A healthy E(e)SEEDi lifestyle is critical for preventing PTB and fCVD.
• Further clinical and experimental research is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms.
• Addressing mRFs and promoting healthy lifestyles can mitigate risks for both PTB and fCVD.