Exploring the effects of maternal anemia on neonatal neurodevelopment: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND

Maternal anemia, particularly iron deficiency anemia (IDA), affects about 30% of women globally. Iron is vital for fetal brain development, influencing myelination and oxygen transport. The extent of maternal anemia's effect on neonatal neurodevelopment remains unclear. This meta-analysis examines how maternal anemia affects neonatal cognitive, motor, and socioemotional outcomes.

METHODS

A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, including studies published until December 2024. After screening 1,388 articles, six studies met the inclusion criteria (sample sizes: 178-636). Eligible studies examined maternal iron levels and neonatal neurodevelopment, assessed using standardized tools. Pooled effect sizes were calculated, and study quality was evaluated using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale.

RESULTS

No significant association was found between maternal anemia and neonatal habituation (p = 0.93), orientation (p = 0.76), state regulation (p = 0.90), motor maturity (p = 0.71), autonomic stability (p = 0.10), early learning composite (p = 0.65), or gross motor function (p = 0.59). Heterogeneity was low to moderate, with no publication bias detected.

CONCLUSION

Maternal anemia showed no significant short-term effect on neonatal habituation, orientation, motor maturity, or gross motor function. Future studies should assess long-term neurodevelopment to clarify potential delayed effects and refine treatment approaches.