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Effect measures for behavioral factors adversely affecting fetal growth
A Spinillo1, E Capuzzo, G Piazzi
1Clinica Ostetrico-Ginecologica, IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy.
American Journal of Perinatology
|February 1, 1996
Summary
Fetal growth retardation linked to smoking and substance use is not easily preventable. Interventions targeting major risk factors like preeclampsia are more likely to reduce impaired fetal growth and infant illness.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
- Public Health
Background:
- Fetal growth retardation (FGR) is a significant concern in perinatal health.
- Identifying modifiable risk factors is crucial for prevention strategies.
- Behavioral factors like smoking and substance use are potential contributors to FGR.
Purpose of the Study:
- To estimate the proportion of FGR cases attributable to potentially remediable factors.
- To assess the association between cigarette smoking, alcohol, and illicit drug use and FGR.
- To inform public health interventions for reducing FGR incidence.
Main Methods:
- Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used.
- Study included 350 singleton pregnancies with ultrasonically diagnosed FGR and 700 controls.
- Data collected on cigarette smoking, alcohol, and illicit drug consumption.
Main Results:
- Women smoking throughout pregnancy had an odds ratio of 2.61 for FGR compared to those stopping by 18 weeks.
- The attributable risk for FGR associated with behavioral variables ranged from 18% to 21%.
- Theoretical maximum prevention by eliminating these factors was estimated at <1% of all births.
Conclusions:
- Potentially remediable behavioral factors account for a small proportion of FGR.
- Interventions targeting strong risk factors like preeclampsia and sociodemographic variables may have a greater impact.
- Reducing FGR and subsequent infant morbidity requires addressing major underlying causes.