Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, Jun 5: Maternal exposure to toxic air, especially fine particulate matter (PM2.5), during pregnancy can significantly increase the risk of premature births, according to a groundbreaking study conducted by Emory University researchers.
The study, led by Dr. Donghai Liang, Associate Professor of Environmental Health at Emory's Rollins School of Public Health, has shed new light on how air pollution disrupts maternal metabolism and biological pathways—contributing directly to early labour and other birth complications.
“For the first time, we were able to look at the detailed pathway and specific fine particles to identify how they reflect in the increased risk of adverse birth outcomes,” Dr. Liang stated. “This is important because if we can figure out the 'why' and 'how,' we can better address the issue.”
The researchers analysed blood samples from 330 pregnant women and found that short-term exposure to air pollution led to biological changes involving two key substances—cortexolone and lysoPE. These metabolic alterations were directly linked to elevated risks of early-term and preterm births.
Preterm birth, which affects nearly 10% of global pregnancies, is associated with serious health complications including cerebral palsy, respiratory distress syndrome, and increased lifelong risks of non-communicable diseases. Even early-term deliveries (37-39 weeks) are known to heighten risks of neonatal morbidity and developmental delays.
The findings underscore the urgent need for stricter air quality regulations and targeted interventions to protect expectant mothers from harmful air pollutants. As India continues to grapple with poor air quality in many urban centres, the study serves as a timely reminder of the invisible threats to maternal and child health.
Health experts are urging authorities to consider this evidence when planning urban development and pollution control policies—highlighting that safeguarding air quality is not just an environmental concern, but a public health imperative.