Project Abstract

Ambient air pollution is a significant environmental health concern that has been associated with various adverse health outcomes, including pregnancy complications. This review aims to summarize the existing literature on the relationship between ambient air pollution and pregnancy outcomes. Several studies have investigated the potential effects of ambient air pollution on pregnancy outcomes such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and birth defects. The findings from these studies suggest that exposure to air pollutants, including particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and carbon monoxide, may increase the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. Particulate matter (PM) has been one of the most widely studied air pollutants in relation to pregnancy outcomes. High levels of PM have been linked to an increased risk of preterm birth and low birth weight. Nitrogen dioxide (NO2), a common air pollutant from traffic emissions, has also been associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. Studies have shown that exposure to NO2 during pregnancy may increase the risk of preterm birth and intrauterine growth restriction. Sulfur dioxide (SO2) is another air pollutant that has been linked to adverse pregnancy outcomes. Exposure to high levels of SO2 during pregnancy has been associated with an increased risk of preterm birth and low birth weight. Carbon monoxide (CO), a colorless and odorless gas produced by combustion processes, has also been implicated in adverse pregnancy outcomes. Studies have shown that exposure to high levels of CO during pregnancy may increase the risk of preterm birth and low birth weight. In addition to individual air pollutants, several studies have examined the effects of overall air quality on pregnancy outcomes. Poor air quality, characterized by high levels of multiple air pollutants, has been associated with an increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. Overall, the findings from this review suggest that ambient air pollution may have significant impacts on pregnancy outcomes. Pregnant women may be particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of air pollution, and efforts to reduce exposure to air pollutants during pregnancy may help improve pregnancy outcomes. Further research is needed to better understand the mechanisms underlying the relationship between ambient air pollution and pregnancy outcomes and to develop interventions to protect pregnant women from the harmful effects of air pollution.

Project Overview