Effects of occupational exposure on pregnancy: Results of an epidemiologic survey conducted in Pisa area

The aim of the study is to evaluate the correlation between occupational exposure and pregnancy outcomes. 744 female workers have been interviewed by phone, one year after the delivery. The questionnaire contained information on job, smoking habits, alcohol consumption, diseases during pregnancy and pregnancy outcomes. Within the group were considered exposed and non exposed and within exposed, who continued to be exposed during pregnancy. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS 10.0 package. By multiple logistic regression analysis adjusting for age, smoking, diseases, drugs and education, low birth weight (OR=2.86; 95%IC=0.91-8.99; p=0.07) is higher in women who continued to be exposed to risks factor during pregnancy compared to those who stopped to be exposed, the result is closed to be statistically significant. For preterm birth (OR=1.14; 95% IC=0.36-3.64) the result is not statistically significant. The higher risk of low birth weight in women who continued to be exposed to risks factor during pregnancy confirmed the importance of preventive strategies during pregnancy.