Project 1: Exposures to Air Pollutants, Modifying Genes and Risk of Birth Defects and Preterm Birth

Birth defects and preterm birth are serious health problems in the U.S. and around the world. This project is studying the impact of air pollution and genetics on birth defects and preterm birth. The results could have important implications for prevention of these common, costly and often deadly outcomes of pregnancy.  Project 1 investigates the health risks to a newborn resulting from its mother being exposed to air pollution throughout pregnancy. Examples of the health risks we study include negative birth outcomes like premature birth, low birth weight, small for gestational age and structural birth defects like cleft palate and spina bifida.

Project 1 research looks at birth records to analyze data, and does not use information from our cohort of participants.

Project Lead: Gary Shaw, PhD- Stanford University