New study shows heat waves increase risk of preterm, early-term birth

Metropolitan statistical areas included in the study. Circles are proportional to sample size. Credit: JAMA Network Open (2024). DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.12055 The increased frequency and intensity of heat waves due to climate change puts women at a higher risk of experiencing preterm and early-term labor—jeopardizing the health and well-being of their babies. These are the results of a new multi-institutional study published Friday, May 24, in JAMA Network Open. An analysis of 53 million births that occurred in the 50 most populous U.S. metropolitan areas during the 25-year period 1993–2017, showed Read More