The Relationship between Exposure to a Number of Allergens and Pathogens During Pregnancy with Anthropometric Indicators of Infants in Yazd

Abstract

Background: Pregnant women are exposed daily to various allergens and pathogens that may influence infant growth indices. This study aimed to investigate the association between exposure to selected allergens and pathogens during pregnancy and anthropometric indices at birth. Methods: This prospective cohort study was conducted in four referral obstetrics and gynecology hospitals in Yazd, Iran. The study population included all eligible pregnant women (n = 1.623) who visited these referral centers from 2014 to 2019, selected through a census method. Data collection tools included a demographic characteristics form, infant anthropometric indices, and maternal exposure history to allergens and pathogens during pregnancy. Findings: A significant association was found between exposure to mobile phone towers and high-voltage power lines and infant height (P ≤ 0.05). Increased exposure to mobile phone towers was associated with decreased infant height, while exposure to high-voltage power lines was linked to increased infant height. No significant associations were observed between exposure to other allergens or pathogens and anthropometric indices (P> 0.05). Conclusion: The findings indicate a significant relationship between electromagnetic wave exposure and infant height. However, factors such as the intensity, duration, and distance of exposure to electromagnetic waves warrant further investigation. © 2026, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences(IUMS). All rights reserved.