There has been a large emphasis on researching the impacts of pollution on health, specifically focusing on respiratory function. A recent study from Penn State has shown that prenatal exposure to air pollution can increase the risk of newborns developing respiratory distress.
The researchers specifically focused on prenatal exposure in 2,001 pregnant individuals to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) in 10 different Canadian cities. Fine particulate matter refers to microscopic particles of solid or liquid material that remain suspended in the air and can be generated from a wide range of sources, including construction sites, fields, and smokestacks. Nitrogen dioxide is an air pollutant that is a byproduct of fossil fuel burning and is known to increase the risk of respiratory infection and lead to poor lung function in later life. Exposures to PM2.5 and NO2 were monitored three months before becoming pregnant through the end of the third trimester of pregnancy.
Exposure to fine particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide during pregnancy is associated with an increased risk for newborn respiratory distress.
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According to the study, approximately 7% of newborns experienced respiratory distress. It was noted that higher levels of prenatal exposure to PM2.5 increased the risk of newborns developing respiratory distress, thus interventions like breathing support and antibiotics were needed. The researchers found that this risk was not influenced by a specific timing of exposure; thus, exposure anytime during pregnancy was associated with the same risk for newborn respiratory distress. Exposure to NO2 was more associated with an increased need for full-body or systemic antibiotic administration after birth.
As we continue to study the impacts of air pollution on overall health, the more we understand the many ways that it can impact life-long health and quality of life. This research complements conversations pushing for more sustainable and clean forms of energy not just to combat the impacts of climate change but also to try and improve global health as well.
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