Prenatal PM 2.5 Exposure and Its Association with Low Birth Weight: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Exposure to PM 2.5 while pregnant is associated with negative effects on low birth weight (LBW). This study employed a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the impact of PM 2.5 exposure during pregnancy on LBW. A search of databases such as Scopus, ScienceDirect, and PubMed identified thirteen appropriate studies. This study used a random-effects model to calculate pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for each trimester. The findings revealed a significant relationship between PM 2.5 exposure and LBW in both the first and second trimesters (OR 1.05, 95% CI 1.00-1.09, p < 0.001). There was no significant difference between trimesters ( p = 0.704). The results emphasize the persistent influence of PM 2.5 on fetal development throughout all stages of pregnancy. Reducing air pollution is critical for improving pregnancy outcomes and decreasing the incidence of LBW. Further study is needed to improve exposure assessments and investigate the underlying biological pathways.