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Why does exposure to traffic pollution during pregnancy increase the risk of premature birth?
Health during pregnancy directly affects fetal health, and the impact of traffic pollution has gradually attracted widespread attention from the scientific community and society. Pregnant women who live in high-traffic areas face a higher risk of premature birth, according to research.
In the United States, approximately 30 million people live within 900 meters of high-traffic roads, which carry more than 50,000 vehicles per day, resulting in severe air pollution.
The dangers of traffic pollution
Hazardous substances emitted by automobiles include carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, fine particulate matter (PM), etc. These poisons not only affect ordinary residents, but also pose a threat to the health of pregnant women that cannot be ignored. Numerous studies have confirmed that these pollutants can cause problems such as fetal growth restriction, premature birth and respiratory diseases.
Specific mechanisms affecting pregnant women and fetuses
First of all, too high a concentration of carbon monoxide can cause fetal hypoxia and affect the normal growth and intellectual development of the fetus. According to research, pregnant women inhaling high concentrations of CO may directly threaten the health of their unborn children. Because CO competes with oxygen in the blood, pregnant women may be at higher risk of fetal hypoxia.
Due to its high toxicity, nitrogen oxides are extremely detrimental to maternal health and the normal development of the fetus. High concentrations of nitrogen oxides may even cause fetal mutations.
The association between low birth weight and premature birth
Research in Los Angeles pointed out that maternal exposure to CO and suspended particulates from early pregnancy to six weeks before delivery significantly increased the risk of premature birth and was accompanied by the occurrence of low birth weight. Babies born prematurely often face a variety of health problems that may persist into adulthood.
Long-term and short-term health effects
Research shows that exposure to vehicle pollutants is one of the leading causes of infant mortality and morbidity, with asthma and respiratory problems being particularly common among children. This not only affects their ability to learn, but also causes them to have difficulty socializing.
The increase in childhood asthma has become one of the most common chronic diseases in children, and children living in high-traffic areas have a significantly higher chance of developing various respiratory problems. Research shows that children who live closer to busy roads are more likely to be diagnosed with asthma.
Potential link to autism
Some studies have also shown that autism rates are increased among children living in areas with high traffic pollution. According to a study conducted by UCLA, mothers exposed to higher levels of air pollution during pregnancy have an approximately 10% increased risk of autism in their children. These studies highlight the long-term effects of air pollution on the development of unborn children.
Phenomena on a global scale
Traffic pollution is by no means just an American problem. Several cities around the world face similar challenges, especially those that lack strict emissions standards. Many countries and regions have begun to implement stricter environmental regulations to reduce the impact of transportation emissions on public health.
According to international research, many countries have not only reduced air pollution but also significantly reduced the incidence of respiratory-related diseases after implementing emission standards.
In general, exposure to traffic pollution during pregnancy has extremely important effects on the health of the mother and fetus, and these effects may last a lifetime. How to effectively improve the environment and reduce the risks to pregnant women and unborn children has become an urgent problem for us to solve?
