Meta-analysis of maternal exposure to heavy metals (lead, cadmium, mercury, chromium) and adverse pregnancy outcomes.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The association of heavy metal exposure with adverse pregnancy outcomes (APOs) remains a subject of debate. The goal of the present study was to analyze the correlation of heavy metals (lead [Pb], cadmium [Cd], mercury [Hg], chromium [Cr]) with APOs.

Methods

A systematic review was carried out across four databases: The Cochrane Library, PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase up to November 19, 2024. Two independent researchers performed the literature screening and data extraction based on predefined eligibility criteria. Then, based on the selected literature, the researchers extracted the odds ratios (ORs) and confidence intervals (CIs) of heavy metals (Pb, Cd, Hg, and Cr) and pregnancy outcomes (preterm birth, low birth weight [LBW], and small gestational age [SGA

SUBMITTER: Ou Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12763927 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature