COVID-19 Infection During Pregnancy Linked to Increased Autism Risk in Children: New Study
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World - A newly published study in the journal Obstetrics & Gynecology reveals a potential link between COVID-19 infection during pregnancy and a heightened risk of autism or other developmental delays in children by age three. The findings underscore the importance of preventative measures, particularly vaccination, for expectant mothers.
Key Findings of the Massachusetts study
Researchers analyzed data from over 18,000 births in Massachusetts between 2020 and 2021,a period preceding widespread COVID-19 vaccination. Among the 861 women who tested positive for the virus while pregnant, 16.3% of their children were later diagnosed with a neurological condition. This contrasts with a 9.7% diagnosis rate among children whose mothers were not infected during pregnancy.
The study identified that the risk was most pronounced when the maternal infection occured during the third trimester of pregnancy. Moreover, male children appeared to be at a slightly higher risk, even though researchers emphasize that the overall absolute risk remains low.
Observational Study, Not Definitive Causation
it is indeed crucial to note that this research is observational in nature. researchers clarified that the study does not establish a direct causal relationship between COVID-19 infection and the development of autism. However, the findings strongly suggest a correlation and reinforce existing recommendations for vaccination during pregnancy.
“While this study doesn’t prove that COVID-19 causes these neurological conditions, it highlights a potential association that warrants further investigation,” explained a lead researcher involved in the study. “Protecting pregnant women through vaccination remains a critical public health strategy to safeguard the neurological development of their children.”
The study adds to a growing body of research examining the potential long-term effects of COVID-19 on both mothers and children. Continued monitoring and research are essential to fully understand the scope and nature of this potential link.
Source: Obstetrics & Gynecology Journal
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