The concentration of selected elements in the placenta according to selected sociodemographic factors and their effect on birth mass and birth length of newborns

ConclusionsSmoking during pregnancy and environment pollution are the factors that affects the concentration of elements in the placenta and contributes to their high accumulation in the placenta. Smoking during pregnancy causes an increased concentration of cadmium in the placenta which has negative health effects for the newborn. Women living in a big city or village had a higher concentration of cadmium in their placentas compared to women living in smaller cities. The significant influence of some elements (K, Fe, Zn, Cu and Cd) on the newborn’s birth parameters was also demonstrated. The results of our research indicate the importance of the mother’s lifestyle in providing the placenta with elements, which affects the growth of the fetus. •The placenta is an organ that is responsible for the proper course of pregnancy and fetal development.•The demand for mineral components increases during the gestational period, therefore, an appropriate intake of minerals determines the correct growth and development of a fetus•Increased exposure to arsenic, cadmium and lead during the gestational period can induce miscarriage, premature delivery, risk of fetal death, inhibition of intrauterine growth and development of the fetus, and low birth parameters.
Source: Journal of Trace Elements in Medicine and Biology - Category: Biochemistry Source Type: research