Swedish and American studies show that initiatives to decrease maternal obesity could play a key role in reducing preterm birth

Acta Paediatr. 2014 Jun;103(6):586-91. doi: 10.1111/apa.12616. Epub 2014 Mar 25.

Abstract

Maternal obesity is a major source of preventable perinatal morbidity, but studies of the relationship between obesity and preterm birth have been inconsistent. This review looks at two major studies covering just under 3.5 million births, from California, USA, and Sweden.

Conclusion: Inconsistent findings in previous studies appear to stem from the complex relationship between obesity and preterm birth. Initiatives to decrease maternal obesity represent an important strategy in reducing preterm birth.

Keywords: Body mass index; Maternal obesity; Preterm birth; Preterm delivery.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Body Mass Index
  • California / epidemiology
  • Female
  • Fetal Membranes, Premature Rupture / epidemiology
  • Fetal Membranes, Premature Rupture / etiology
  • Fetal Membranes, Premature Rupture / prevention & control*
  • Humans
  • Obesity / complications
  • Obesity / epidemiology
  • Obesity / prevention & control*
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications / epidemiology
  • Pregnancy Complications / prevention & control
  • Pregnancy Outcome / epidemiology*
  • Premature Birth / epidemiology
  • Premature Birth / etiology
  • Premature Birth / prevention & control*
  • Risk Factors
  • Sweden / epidemiology