Investigating the Relationship between Water Pollution (Arsenic) and Preterm Birth

Abstract

Background: Many adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as preterm birth, are believed to be caused by environmental pollution. One of the most significant polluters is arsenic in the water. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the relationship between arsenic and the development of preterm birth. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on patients with preterm birth compared with a normal control group. All patients underwent urine samples to assess arsenic levels. Findings: The mean age in the group of mothers without preterm birth was 24.45 ± 4.63, and the mean age in the group of mothers with preterm birth was 25.18 ± 3.94 (P = 0.231). The mean arsenic level in mothers without preterm birth was 20.44 ± 8.24, and the mean arsenic level in the group of mothers with preterm birth was 22.75 ± 7.05 (P = 0.368). In late preterm birth, the mean Arsenic level was higher with slight significance, with a mean of 24.15 ± 4.63 (P = 0.045). This observation didn’t exist in early preterm birth with the mean Arsenic level of 21.05 ± 6.12 (P = 0.78). Conclusion: We couldn’t find any significant relationship between urine arsenic levels and the occurrence of preterm birth. However, our data showed a relationship between late preterm birth and Arsenic levels. More comprehensive trials are recommended. © 2025 Isfahan University of Medical Sciences(IUMS). All rights reserved.