The healthy development of the fetus is closely related to the mother's health. Exposure to a highly polluted environment during pregnancy will have a significant impact on the fetus.Early research has found that pollutants emitted by vehicles are related to a variety of health problems, including asthma, lung disease and cancer.Not only the general population, the impact of these vehicle pollutants on pregnant women and their fetus is more interesting.
Ηigh levels of pollution can lead to serious health issues for both expected mothers and their unborn children.
Study shows that air pollutants have adverse effects on fertility.For example, the increase in nitrogen oxides (NO2) was significantly associated with a decrease in live birth rate in women treated with IVF.In addition, exposure to carbon monoxide (CO) in pregnant women is associated with an increased risk of stillbirth during the second and third pregnancy.
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) such as benzo(a)pyrene (BaP) have been associated with reduced fertility.This type of substance usually comes from exhaust gases and cigarette smoke. Its toxic effects mainly cause oxidative pressure and increase the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), causing cell inflammation and death.Long-term exposure can cause damage to DNA, which in turn leads to fertility problems.
According to California studies, high exposure to PM2.5 is associated with reduced sperm motility and abnormal morphology.Even among women, although the overall impact on fertility is not great, some studies have pointed out that the increase in PM10 is related to early miscarriage.
There are relatively limited research on the impact of ozone pollution on fertility.While high concentrations of ozone are often problematic in the summer, some studies have shown that it may have a negative impact on the success rate of IVF.
Carbon monoxide (CO) mainly comes from automobile emissions, and pregnant women may threaten the growth and psychological development of the fetus after inhalation.Carbon monoxide competes with oxygen, causing fetal hypoxia.
Naphthalene oxide is a common air pollutant. If pregnant women are exposed to high concentrations of nitrogen oxides, they will cause fetal mutations and affect their pregnancy ability.
Particular substances are considered one of the most dangerous contaminants because they can enter the body through the respiratory tract, increasing the risk of low birth weight and premature birth.
Exposure to contaminants emitted by vehicles can lead to increased infant mortality and morbidity and may lead to chronic diseases such as asthma.This type of influence not only appears in the early stages of birth, but will even accompany the entire growth process, affecting the child's learning ability and health status.
Children exposed to elevated levels of air pollution are at higher risk for respiratory issues, chronic illnesses, and even developmental disorders.
Study shows that babies born to mothers exposed to high pollution environments have a higher incidence of autism.The latest research found that babies exposed to higher levels of pollution have a 10% increased risk of autism.
The impact of vehicle emissions is not limited to the United States, but many countries face similar challenges.Studies have shown that the impact of pollutants between regions is similar, especially the emission of nitrogen oxides is related to pregnancy losses.
As our understanding of the impact of vehicle emissions deepens, how can we improve the air quality in our communities to protect the health of every household in the future?