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As North India grapples with severe air pollution, a new study published in Scientific Reports has revealed a hidden health risk for pregnant women. The research indicates that the use of solid fuels such as coal, crop residue, and wood for cooking and heating is linked to a significantly higher risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). GDM, a common pregnancy complication, poses health risks for both mother and child and increases the likelihood of future diabetes in affected women.
The study, conducted by researchers from Zunyi Medical University in China, analyzed data from 4,338 pregnant women with an average age of 27, among whom 302 developed GDM. The findings showed that women using solid fuels for heating had a notably higher risk of developing GDM compared to those using cleaner energy sources like electricity and gas.
In addition to environmental factors, lifestyle choices also played a crucial role in the development of GDM. The study observed that pregnant women with GDM had higher prenatal BMI and reported lower levels of physical activity and sleep than those without the condition. However, making healthier lifestyle choices—such as consuming a balanced diet rich in vegetables and fruits, engaging in regular physical activity, getting adequate sleep, and taking vitamin D supplements—helped reduce the incidence of GDM.
With pollution levels on the rise in North India, the study highlights the importance of transitioning to cleaner energy sources for cooking and heating to mitigate health risks for expecting mothers. Public health initiatives promoting environmental sustainability and maternal well-being could be instrumental in reducing the burden of GDM in the region.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is based on research findings and is intended for informational purposes only. Readers are advised to consult healthcare professionals for medical guidance and to consider environmental policies that support cleaner energy alternatives.
(Source: Daijiworld)
