AMBIENT AIR POLLUTION AND PREGNANCY OUTCOMES: A REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE
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AMBIENT AIR POLLUTION AND PREGNANCY OUTCOMES: A REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE
ABSTRACT
Over the last decade or so, numerous research have looked into the potential negative impacts of ambient air pollution on birth outcomes. We reviewed these studies, which were found by a comprehensive search of the major scientific databases. Almost all of the examined studies were population-based, with data on air pollution exposure obtained from routine monitoring sources.
Overall, there is evidence that air pollution has an unfavourable influence on many birth outcomes, but the strength of the evidence varies by outcome. The data is strong enough to support a causal association between particle air pollution and respiratory mortality in the postnatal period.
The evidence supports a direct relationship between air pollution and birth weight, but more research is needed to validate an effect and its magnitude, as well as to explain the most sensitive stage of pregnancy and the function of various contaminants.
The evidence for preterm births and intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) is currently insufficient to conclude causality, but the present information warrants additional investigation.
Molecular epidemiology studies show potential physiological processes for the effect on birth weight, premature birth, and IUGR, supporting the notion that the link between pollution and these birth outcomes is real.
There is inadequate evidence to draw judgements about birth abnormalities at this time. In terms of exposure to specific pollutants, particulates appear to be the most important cause of infant mortality, and the effect on IUGR appears to be linked to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons
but the available evidence does not allow for precise identification of the various pollutants or the timing of exposure that can result in adverse pregnancy outcomes.
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