The World Health Organization considers air pollution one of the greatest environmental health risks. Several studies have already demonstrated that exposure to ambient air pollution impacts health. It leads in particular to oxidative stress and inflammation. A team from the Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health set out to assess the risk posed by exposure to fine particles for pregnant women. This population is in fact particularly sensitive to air pollution.
In 2021, Public Health France estimated that air pollution ambient was responsible for 40,000 deaths each year. These were essentially attributable to particles fine (PM2.5). These tiny particles mainly come from wood heating, road traffic and industrial activities. Pregnant women are particularly sensitive to air pollution. In fact, their respiratory rate increases during pregnancy (up to 50%!). In addition, the fetus needs a lot of oxygen (provided by the placenta). This leads to greater inhalation and circulation of pollutants, the researchers explain.
This increased sensitivity has been associated with higher levels of inflammation, which can lead to serious consequences. Researchers talk about pre-eclampsia, premature birth or underweight to…Read the rest on Science et vie
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