Impact of air pollution during pregnancy on the growth of newborn infants
In a groundbreaking study, researchers from the INMA (Environment and Childhood) project in Gipuzkoa have discovered a direct relationship between exposure to fine particles during pregnancy and the level of thyroxine in newborn babies. The study, titled the "Lung Dust and Neonatal Thyroxine Levels Study" (German: "Studie über Lungenschmutz während der Schwangerschaft und Thyroxin-Werte bei Neugeborenen"), was published in the journal Environmental Research and can be accessed using the DOI 10.1016/j.envres.2021.111132.
The study aimed to analyze the relationship between atmospheric pollution during pregnancy and the level of thyroxine, the main thyroid hormone that circulates, in newborn babies. The research sample for this study was the INMA project in Gipuzkoa.
The findings of the study revealed that the early and late months of pregnancy are the most sensitive periods in terms of atmospheric pollution. Specifically, the study found a direct influence on the balance of thyroid hormones during these periods. However, no clear link was observed between exposure to nitrogen dioxide and the level of thyroxine in newborns.
At 48 hours after birth, newborn babies undergo a heel prick test to measure thyroxine and TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) levels in the blood. The results of this test were used to determine the level of thyroxine in newborns and its relationship with exposure to fine particles during pregnancy.
The INMA project is a research initiative focusing on early exposure to environmental pollutants and their impact on infant health. The project's findings suggest that exposure during the first and late months of pregnancy has a direct influence on the balance of thyroid hormones, which, if not right, can increase the risk of developing serious diseases.
It is important to note that this study adds to the growing body of evidence linking air pollution to health issues in newborns. As more research is conducted, expectant mothers and healthcare providers can use this information to make informed decisions about how to protect the health of both mother and child during pregnancy.
