Prenatal Exposure to Hexachlorobenzene Linked to Childhood Obesity
Author Information
Author(s): David J. Tenenbaum, Agnes Smink, Wilfried Karmaus
Hypothesis
Is there an association between prenatal exposure to hexachlorobenzene and childhood obesity?
Conclusion
The study found that higher levels of hexachlorobenzene in umbilical cord blood are associated with increased weight in childhood.
Supporting Evidence
- Each doubling in cord blood HCB levels was associated with a weight increase of 1.14 kg.
- The relative risk of being overweight was 1.7 times higher per doubling in cord blood HCB level.
- The association between HCB concentration and elevated BMI was independent of maternal socioeconomic status.
Takeaway
If a mom is exposed to certain chemicals while pregnant, it might make her baby more likely to be overweight when they grow up.
Methodology
The study measured HCB levels in umbilical cord blood and tracked children's height and weight at birth and at age 6.5 years.
Limitations
The study does not claim that HCB is the only cause of obesity, and the long-term effects beyond age six are unclear.
Participant Demographics
Expectant mothers on the Spanish Mediterranean island of Minorca.
Statistical Information
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website