Image via WikipediaTraffic emissions are associated with reduced fetal growth in areas of Perth, Western Australia: an application of the AusRoads dispersion model (Abstract, Gavin Pereira, Natasha Nassar,Angus Cook, Carol Bower, Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health, Oct. 4, 2011)And here: Traffic emissions linked to reduced foetal growth (MSN News, Oct. 7, 2011)
The research reviewed today concerns the impact of traffic-related pollution on fetal growth for pregnant women in Perth, Australia. The results indicate a clear association with babies at birth weighing 58 km lighter on average.
Key Quotes:
“We used carbon monoxide as a marker for locally derived traffic emissions, and assessed exposure using the AusRoads dispersion model.”
“We observed an association between maternal exposure to traffic emissions and reduced fetal growth.. but only observed in one of the three study areas.. reflected about half of the effect observed for maternal smoking during pregnancy”
“The University of Western Australia study found that mothers in areas moderately polluted by carbon monoxide gave birth to children who were an average 58 grams lighter”
"This is the first time we have seen a specific link between normal suburban traffic pollution and its effect on the foetal growth.. International studies have found some associations but this is the first time we have seen a specific link between normal suburban traffic pollution and its effect on the foetal growth "
"The health benefits of active travel add to the health benefits of not contributing to traffic emissions."
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