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Smoking during pregnancy and preterm birth
K Wisborg1, T B Henriksen, M Hedegaard
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark.
British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology
|August 1, 1996
Summary
Smoking during pregnancy significantly increases preterm birth risk, especially with high caffeine intake. This association was dose-dependent, highlighting the need for further research into heavy caffeine consumers.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Perinatal Health
- Reproductive Epidemiology
Background:
- Smoking during pregnancy is a known risk factor for adverse birth outcomes.
- The interplay between smoking, caffeine consumption, and preterm birth requires further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between maternal smoking during pregnancy and the risk of preterm birth.
- To explore potential modifying effects of caffeine intake on this association.
Main Methods:
- A follow-up study involving 4,111 nulliparous women with singleton pregnancies.
- Questionnaires collected at 16 weeks gestation assessed smoking habits and other lifestyle factors.
- Statistical analyses adjusted for multiple confounders including maternal demographics and alcohol intake.
Main Results:
- Smokers exhibited a 40% higher risk of preterm birth compared to non-smokers, with a dose-response relationship observed.
- The increased risk of preterm birth associated with smoking was primarily evident among women with high caffeine intake (over 400 mg/day).
- Among high caffeine consumers, a dose-response was noted, with heavy smoking (more than 10 cigarettes/day) increasing preterm birth risk nearly fivefold.
Conclusions:
- Maternal smoking is a significant risk factor for preterm birth.
- The association between smoking and preterm birth appears to be conditional on high caffeine consumption.
- Further research is warranted to understand the independent effect of smoking on preterm birth risk in heavy caffeine consumers.