CNN Central News & Networks / ITDC India ePress / ITDC News /Agencies/ Delhi: Global warming raises preterm births, 8,830 cases estimated in India
New Delhi: The impact of climate change and rising heat is now becoming visible on the health of pregnant women and unborn children. According to a new study, during the severe heat in South and Southeast Asia in April 2024, India, Bangladesh and the Philippines recorded about 16,150 additional preterm births compared with normal conditions. Of these, around 10,600 cases have been linked to human-induced climate change. In India, 8,830 such additional births have been estimated.
According to an analysis by the international research group Zero Carbon Analytics (ZCA), about two-thirds of this additional burden in India was concentrated in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal and Jharkhand. Higher population levels and the degree of exposure to heat in these states are among the key factors affecting the risk of preterm birth.
A preterm birth is defined as a birth that occurs before 37 weeks of pregnancy are completed. Such babies face a higher risk of breathing difficulties, infections and developmental complications. Extreme heat can increase physical stress on the bodies of pregnant women. This may lead to conditions such as dehydration and stress, which can raise the risk of early labour.
The study has also expressed concern about the future. It is estimated that between 2041 and 2060, even during a normal April month in India, climate change could cause up to 15,300 additional preterm births. This estimate is based on the assumption that there will be no major improvement in health services and levels of climate adaptation.
According to experts, timely weather warnings, adequate drinking water, cooling arrangements at health centres and regular antenatal care are essential for pregnant women. Better coordination between health and environmental policies is needed to reduce health risks linked to climate change.
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