By Clare Tweedy
Pollution emitted from vehicles and the use of coal in power plants has been found to increase the chance of pregnant women having smaller babies. The worldwide study included a UK division headed by a team at Newcastle University, but also included data from nine other nations around the world. More than three million births were analysed over the course of the study with factors like socioeconomic status taken into account. It was found that in areas with higher pollution it was significantly more likely for smaller weight babies to be born. While low birth weight (defined as less than 5lbs 8oz) is harmless for some babies, it can carry with it the risk of health problems later in life.
The pollution in question is often referred to as PM (particulate matter) and levels are considerably higher in larger cities around the world. Despite tight regulations in many countries over the recent years, PM levels are clearly still having a hazardous effect on health. While the European Union currently limit PM levels to 25 micrograms per meter cubed, other nations such as the US and Scotland have set their annual limits at 12 micrograms per meter cubed. It is hoped that this worldwide study may convince countries with higher PM limits to lower them in order to combat the health problems of low birth weight children.
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