According to the researchers, these factors can disrupt one-carbon cycle metabolism—a key set of pathways for cell growth and replication—thereby contributing to defects.
A study in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine reports that two out of three women of childbearing age have at least one lifestyle-related risk factor that may increase the chances of serious birth defects.
The most common and preventable risks identified include food insecurity, low folate or vitamin B12 levels, unmanaged diabetes, obesity, and cigarette smoke exposure. According to the researchers, these factors can disrupt one-carbon cycle metabolism—a key set of pathways for cell growth and replication—thereby contributing to defects.
Conditions most often linked to these risks include congenital heart defects, cleft lip and palate, and neural tube defects. In addition, these same factors have been linked to other adverse pregnancy outcomes such as pre-eclampsia, stillbirth, premature birth and poor neurodevelopmental outcomes.
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Researchers analysed data from 5,374 women aged 12-49 years and found that 66.4 per cent had at least one modifiable risk factor for birth defects, while nearly 10 per cent had three or more. These findings emphasise both the widespread nature of these risks and the opportunity for intervention.
“Every growing family hopes for a healthy pregnancy and baby. Recognising and addressing modifiable risk factors helps families, health providers, and public health professionals take informed steps toward healthier pregnancies,” the study’s lead author said.