New research shows that pregnant women are exposed to dozens of chemicals that have been linked to premature births and low birth weight.
Researchers tested urine samples from more than 5,000 women who gave birth between 2000 and 2021 and compared the results to pregnancy outcomes.
They examined 113 chemicals commonly found in food, water, air pollution, personal care products, fragrances and other household items.
On average, the tests detected 45 chemicals in each sample, up to 64 in some participants.
Among them are phthalates, which make plastic more flexible and durable, as well as some newer plasticizers.
According to the results, some of these compounds were consistently associated with early birth and low birth weight.
The senior researcher says, “We found that several newer chemicals used to replace toxic substances are also harmful…”
Studies have also linked PAHs, (pronounced: pah-z), which are produced when coal, oil, gas, and wood are burned, to lower birth weight.
Avoiding these chemicals can be difficult because they are found in so many everyday products, says the lead author.
As she says, “We have limited control over the effects of the negative effects. . . .”
“And even small changes in birth weight or gestational age can have a significant impact on children’s health.”
Researchers are calling on governments and companies to do more to reduce harmful chemicals in everyday products and ensure the safety of new products.
Source: JAMA Open Network
Author Affiliations: UNC Gillings School of Global Health, Stanford University School of Medicine, Woods Institute for the Environment
