| Abstract [eng] |
The aim of the research: assess the impact of high ambient temperatures (climate change) on pregnancy outcomes and birth outcomes, considering socioeconomic factors. Materials and methods: A systematic literature review was conducted. Scientific articles were searched in the PubMed and Wiley Online Library databases. Source selection was performed according to PRISMA guidelines. A total of 11 studies were included in the analysis: 9 examining adverse pregnancy outcomes (3 on preterm birth, 6 on fetal growth restriction and small for gestational age birth weight) and 2 examining adverse birth outcomes, namely fetal death. Results: A total of 11 studies were included in the systematic literature review, encompassing data from more than 11 million pregnant individuals and mother-infant pairs. Most studies demonstrated that high ambient temperatures and heatwaves significantly increase the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes, with the strongest associations observed for preterm birth, fetal growth restriction, and small birth weight. Two large-scale studies also identified an increased risk of stillbirth during periods of prolonged heat exposure. The greatest impact of heat was noted during late pregnancy and during heatwave events. Additionally, the studies highlighted a significant socioeconomic effect: women from socially and economically disadvantaged families were at higher risk of heat-related adverse pregnancy and birth outcomes due to limited access to healthcare services. Conclusions: High ambient temperature increases the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes (preterm birth, fetal growth restriction, and small-for-gestational-age birth weight) and birth outcomes (fetal death), with poor maternal socioeconomic status further amplifying this risk. |
