Silent Harm: How Ambient Air Pollution Threatens Prenatal and Neonatal Health. A Systematic Review.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the link between ambient air pollution and poor pregnancy and neonatal outcomes.

METHODS

This systematic study searched numerous databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library, revealed 26 papers that met established criteria. This research looked at how pollutants such as Particulate matter smaller than 2.5 microns, Particulate Matter ≤10 micrometers, Nitrogen Dioxide, Sulfur Dioxide, Ozone, and black carbon affected maternal and new-born health, including miscarriage, preeclampsia, preterm delivery, low birth weight, and neonatal respiratory and neurological abnormalities.

RESULTS

Findings repeatedly revealed that enhanced the danger of gestational problems and poor neonatal consequences, with pollutants including Particulate matter smaller than 2.5 microns and Nitrogen Dioxide substantially related to hypertensive disorders, before the expected time of delivery, low birth weight, and reduced new-born immune and respiratory function. The paper also discusses how pollution impacts health via biological processes such as oxidative stress and epigenetic alterations. Variability in research designs, exposure assessment methodologies, and regional pollution levels were observed.

CONCLUSION

This review underscores the link between ambient air pollution, particularly Particulate matter smaller than 2.5 microns and Nitrogen Dioxide, and poor pregnancy and neonatal outcomes. Recognizing these risks is crucial for nursing care, allowing nurses to educate, identify early risks, and advocate for policies that protect mothers and newborns. Strengthening interventions will improve health outcomes for both.