THE DANGER OF PRETERM BIRTH DUE TO EXTREME HEAT
According to a study by the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), Black and Hispanic mothers, as well as those in low-income groups, are at higher risk of preterm birth after prolonged heatwaves.
Heatwaves can impact the health of both the fetus and increase the risk of preterm birth. (Image: parents.com)
In 2023, particularly in July, global temperatures reached record highs for four consecutive days, leading to cases of pregnant women suffering from heat exhaustion and heatstroke. This adversely impacted the health of fetuses and newborns.
Specifically, researchers observed 53 million births (from 1993 to 2017) across 50 metropolitan areas in the United States. After four consecutive days of prolonged heat, the risk of preterm birth in these areas increased by 2%, and the rate of preterm births rose by 1%. Lyndsey Darrow, the study’s author and an epidemiology professor at the University of Nevada, stated: “The rate of preterm births is higher among women who do not have access to air conditioning or who live in prolonged high-temperature environments.”
Preterm birth is considered the leading cause of infant mortality as it can lead to numerous respiratory and neurological development issues in children. High temperatures can stimulate the body to produce hormones that cause uterine contractions, leading to early labor. Additionally, it can affect blood flow in the fetus and cause dehydration, contributing to an increased risk of preterm birth.
There is growing research highlighting the importance of managing temperature-related stress for pregnant women. However, there is still a lack of specific and consistent advice on how to limit high-temperature exposure for this group. A study published in 2022 indicated that current guidelines on heat exposure for pregnant women are still vague and inconsistent.
Therefore, it is essential to develop and implement effective preventive measures to protect the health of pregnant women. Raising community awareness about the dangers of high temperatures and how to avoid them will help reduce the risk of preterm birth and dangerous complications for both mothers and babies.
Source: The Guardian
