Pregnancy complications, substance abuse, and prenatal care predict birthweight in adolescent mothers

ConclusionsAmong high-risk adolescent mothers, both biological factors, such as pregnancy complications, and behavioural factors amenable to intervention, such as substance abuse and insufficient prenatal care, seem to contribute to reduced birthweight in their children, a predisposing factor for poorer health outcomes later in life. More tailored intervention programmes targeting the specific needs of this high-risk group are needed.
Source: Archives of Public Health - Category: International Medicine & Public Health Source Type: research