The Role of Pregnant Women s Awareness of Air Pollution in Preventing Adverse Neonatal Health Outcomes: A Narrative Review

sosan salajegheh¹ zahra salajegheh²

1) Assistant Professor, Department of Planning – Management and HSE, College of Environment, University of Tehran, Iran
2) 2- Medical student at kerman university of medical sciences

IOI Code : ACZE-ACZGEA
Publication : 10th.International Congress of Developing Agriculture, Natural Resources, Environment and Tourism of Iran(10icsda.ir)
Abstract :
    Air pollution is one of the most significant environmental hazards and has substantial adverse effects on the health of vulnerable populations, particularly pregnant women and infants. This narrative review aims to examine the role of environmental awareness among pregnant women in preventing adverse neonatal health outcomes associated with exposure to air pollution. Evidence indicates that pollutants such as particulate matter (PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), and ozone can affect fetal growth and birth outcomes through mechanisms including oxidative stress, inflammation, placental dysfunction, and metabolic alterations. Exposure to air pollution during pregnancy has been associated with an increased risk of adverse outcomes, including low birth weight, intrauterine growth restriction, preterm birth, and certain pregnancy complications. Despite this evidence, a substantial gap remains between awareness of the health risks associated with air pollution and the adoption of appropriate protective behaviors among pregnant women. Environmental health awareness and literacy may contribute to reducing maternal and fetal exposure to pollutants by enhancing risk perception, improving attitudes, and promoting preventive behaviors. Factors such as educational attainment, access to reliable information, prenatal education, and the role of healthcare professionals can significantly influence maternal awareness. Therefore, strengthening environmental health education and incorporating air-pollution-related recommendations into prenatal care may represent an effective strategy for protecting the health of future generations.

Keywords : air pollution pregnant women environmental awareness infant health birth outcomes