LATEBREAKER
Women’s Health
Association of Prenatal Smoking and Low Birth Weight: A Comprehensive Analysis of Colorado PRAMS Data Sunghyun* Sunghyun Chung
Introduction
Prenatal smoking is a significant public health concern due to its association with adverse infant outcomes such as low birth weight (LBW), which increases the risk of mortality and morbidity. Understanding the epidemiology of prenatal smoking and its impact on infant outcomes is crucial for designing effective interventions. This study aims to investigate the prevalence of prenatal smoking and its association with LBW infants in Colorado, as well as to identify social and economic disparities in smoking cessation during pregnancy.
Methods
Data between 2019-2021 from the Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS) in Colorado were analyzed (n=1,147). Descriptive statistics and prevalence ratios were calculated to assess the prevalence of prenatal smoking and its association with LBW infants, as well as social and economic disparities in smoking cessation during pregnancy.
Results
Prenatal smoking prevalence varied across demographic groups, with higher rates observed among Black/Non-Hispanic women (25.9%). The lower the income, especially those who are beneath the poverty level (27.5%), the higher the smoking prevalence over the past 3 months. Prenatal smoking was associated with a higher risk of LBW, with infants exposed to smoking in the last trimester having an 80% increased risk of LBW compared to unexposed infants.
Discussion/Conclusion
Addressing social and economic disparities in smoking cessation during pregnancy is essential for improving maternal and infant health. This study highlights the need for comprehensive public health efforts and interventions to support smoking cessation during pregnancy and ultimately improve birth outcomes, especially among those in the high-risk populations identified in this study.