A groundbreaking study conducted by researchers at Oxford University’s National Perinatal Epidemiology Unit has uncovered a significant connection between maternal anaemia during pregnancy and an increased risk of congenital heart disease in newborns. The research revealed that mothers who experience anaemia during the crucial first 100 days of pregnancy are at a higher risk of giving birth to children with heart defects, including conditions such as septal defects and other cardiovascular abnormalities.
The study emphasizes the importance of early prenatal care, particularly in monitoring and addressing anaemia, which is one of the most common conditions affecting pregnant women. Researchers suggest that ensuring adequate iron levels and offering timely interventions during pregnancy could significantly reduce the risk of serious health complications for both mothers and their babies. The findings underscore the need for better education and healthcare resources for expectant mothers, especially those in regions with limited access to healthcare services, in order to improve long-term outcomes for both maternal and child health. Experts believe that with proper care, the vast majority of congenital heart disease cases linked to maternal anaemia can be prevented.
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