JOEM: Associations of Prenatal Agricultural Farm Work (August 2023)-JOEM: Associations of Prenatal Agricultural Farm Work

JOEM: Associations of Prenatal Agricultural Farm Work

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This study aimed to examine the association between prenatal agricultural farm work and fetal overgrowth and pregnancy complications. The study used Arizona birth records from 2006 to 2013 and identified over 600,000 live births from agricultural household statuses. Logistic regression models were used to estimate adjusted odds ratios (aORs) for various outcomes, including macrosomia (excessive fetal weight), postterm birth, low birth weight, preterm birth, and large/small for gestational age. <br /><br />The results showed that newborns from agricultural households had a higher risk of macrosomia, large for gestational age, postterm birth, and low 5-minute APGAR scores. Conversely, agricultural household status was associated with a lower risk of low birth weight and preterm birth. The findings suggest that having at least one agricultural working parent increased the likelihood of fetal overgrowth and low APGAR scores.<br /><br />The study highlights the potential occupational exposures that agricultural workers and their families may face, including chronic exposure to pesticides and heat stress. These exposures can contribute to adverse fetal outcomes. The findings contribute to the limited research on fetal growth outcomes among agricultural workers, who are a vulnerable population. <br /><br />Overall, the study underscores the importance of considering occupational exposures and their potential impact on pregnancy outcomes, especially in high-risk occupations like agriculture. Future research should further explore the specific chemical exposures and environmental factors that may contribute to these adverse outcomes. Additionally, efforts should be made to improve workplace safety and protection for agricultural workers and their families.

Keywords

prenatal agricultural farm work

fetal overgrowth

pregnancy complications

Arizona birth records

live births

agricultural household statuses

macrosomia

postterm birth

low birth weight

preterm birth