downtoearth-subscribe

Pollution may cause premature childbirth

Dr Meenal Kumar The inhalation of outdoor and indoor air pollutants has been found to be a major concern for the health of the unborn, newborn, young children and their mothers. The women who live in the regions with high carbon monoxide or fine-particle levels caused by vehicle traffic are 10 to 25 per cent more likely to have a pre-term baby than those who live in less polluted areas. This is especially true for women who breathe polluted air during the first trimester or during the last months and weeks of pregnancy.

Related Content