28 May 2024 • In recent research published in JAMA, preterm and early-term birth rates increased after heat waves, particularly among socioeconomically disadvantaged subgroups. Researchers revealed a stark pattern- heat waves, lasting four days or more, were linked to a significant uptick in preterm births.

• In this 25-year study spanning over 53 million births across America, heat waves escalated rates of preterm and early-term births, especially during prolonged and sweltering heat episodes.
• A dose-response relationship was observed, with the strongest impacts seen within a 4-day window of elevated temperatures exceeding local thresholds.
• Younger mothers and minority populations faced heightened susceptibility.

These findings sound an urgent call for targeted interventions to safeguard maternal and fetal health amidst rising temperatures.

Source: JAMA | Read full story