Study shows danger of pollution exposure during pregnancy [Video]

Fine particulate matter known as PM2.5 that is associated with a variety of negative health outcomes in humans is often found in the air, and new research has revealed a new PM2.5 health risk related to pregnancy.

“Most particles form in the atmosphere as a result of complex reactions of chemicals such as sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, which are pollutants emitted from power plants, industries and automobiles,” explained the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Researchers from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health conducted the study, published Friday in the Science Advances journal. Per a press release, it is the first study to examine the impact of PM2.5 on maternal and fetal health at the single-cell level. To do this they used data collected by the EPA to calculate average exposure levels in non-pregnant women and women who were 20 weeks pregnant.

Then, the research team “used an innovative technology” that allowed them to determine how the …