Does air pollution during pregnancy affect a child’s neurodevelopment?

A recent study in Developmental Medicine & Child Neurology has linked exposure to tiny particles of air pollution—called fine particulate matter—during pregnancy to delays in children’s gross motor, fine motor, and personal–social development.

The study from Taiwan included 17,683 full-term infants without congenital malformations who were assessed through home interviews at 6 months and 18 months of age.

Each 10 μg/m3 increase in exposure to fine particulate matter during the second trimester was associated with a 9% higher risk of a delay in gross motor neurodevelopmental milestones, after adjustments. Similar levels of risk were seen for delayed fine motor development and personal–social skills. The authors believed that fine particulate matter exposure before birth posed stronger effects than such exposure after birth.  

“Protection of children from air pollutants needs to be started during their mothers’ pregnancy,” said corresponding author Yue Leon Guo, MD, MPH, PhD, of National Taiwan University Medical School and Hospital.

URL upon publication: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/dmcn.15430

Additional Information

NOTE: The information contained in this release is protected by copyright. Please include journal attribution in all coverage. For more information or to obtain a PDF of any study, please contact: Sara Henning-Stout, newsroom@wiley.com.

About the Journal

Developmental Medicine & Child Neurology (DMCN) is a multidisciplinary journal that has defined the fields of paediatric neurology and childhood-onset neurodisability for over 60 years. DMCN disseminates the latest clinical research results globally to enhance the care and improve the lives of disabled children and their families.

About Wiley

Wiley is one of the world’s largest publishers and a global leader in scientific research and career-connected education. Founded in 1807, Wiley enables discovery, powers education, and shapes workforces. Through its industry-leading content, digital platforms, and knowledge networks, the company delivers on its timeless mission to unlock human potential. Visit us at Wiley.com. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram.