SEO Riders:
- – Climate change heightens pregnancy risks in Nigeria, experts warn
- – Rising temperatures linked to increased miscarriages and preterm births
– Air pollution from climate change poses additional threats to maternal health
Climate change is increasingly recognized as a significant threat to maternal health in Nigeria. Rising temperatures, especially those exceeding 25°C, have been linked to heightened risks of pregnancy complications, including miscarriages, preterm births, and low birth weights. Dr. Imam Wada Bello, Director of Public Health and Disease Control at the Kano State Ministry of Health, emphasizes that extreme heat exacerbates physiological stress during pregnancy, potentially leading to adverse outcomes.
Beyond heat, climate change contributes to increased air pollution levels, introducing harmful substances like ozone and sulfur dioxide into the atmosphere. These pollutants can cause inflammation and genetic changes that may hinder placental development and promote blood clots, further endangering both mother and fetus.
Mental health is also affected, as extreme heat can lead to heightened stress and anxiety among expectant mothers. Dr. Bello advises pregnant women to avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours and underscores the importance of hydration and seeking cooler environments to mitigate these risks.
