Air Pollution
Air pollution represents another source of detriment to growth and development. Compounds such as carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide all have the potential to cause serious damage when inhaled by an expecting mother (Le et al., 2012). Low birth weight, preterm birth, intra-uterine growth retardation, and congenital abnormalities have all been found to be associated with fetal exposure to air pollution (Minguillon, 2012). Although pollution can be found virtually everywhere, there are specific sources that have been known to release toxic substances and should be avoided if possible by those who wish to remain relatively free of toxicants. These substances include, but are not limited to: steel mills, waste/water treatment plants, sewage incinerators, automotive fabrication plants, oil refineries, and chemical manufacturing plants (Le et al., 2012). Expecting mothers should make efforts to avoid exposure to air pollution at all costs.
Federal agencies do their best to regulate air pollution for everyone-not just the sake of the unborn children. Sometimes, despite their best efforts, air pollution cannot be fully controlled. For example, in Los Angeles, regulations have been made to control pollution, by putting strict rules on industrial and vehicle emmisions. Improvements have been made to meet these regulations.Despite these improvements, this region still does not meet federal standards for ozone and particulate matter. Approximately 150,000 births occur every year in Los Angeles. Thus, any effects air pollution has on human development in utero,is of great concern to those who live in this region.
Below is a chart that shows air pollution and it's effect during different stages of fetal development
Read more about this topic: Environmental Toxins And Fetal Development
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