Air pollution is contributing to an increase in low birth weight and premature babies, with approximately 573,000 premature births occurring in the country each year.
These premature or low birth weight infants constitute 22% of the under-five mortality rate.
To achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030, the under-five mortality rate needs to decrease from the current 31 to 25 per 1,000, and neonatal mortality should decrease from 20 to 12 per 1,000.
A study conducted by the International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddrb), revealed that air pollution is adversely affecting expectant mothers in Dhaka.
The research, based on 3,206 newborns in the capital, demonstrated a higher incidence of low birth weight among mothers exposed to elevated levels of air pollution during pregnancy.
These mothers also faced an increased risk of premature birth due to air pollution.
Mahin Al Nahian, a researcher at icddr,b, and the head of the research team, said: "We have observed that mothers exposed to relatively high pollution levels are giving birth to low birth weight babies. The rate of preterm birth is also high among them."
The study utilized air pollution data from the Department of Environment sources and maternal/newborn data from the Maternal and Child Health Training Institute in Azimpur, Dhaka.
Low birth weight, defined as a newborn weighing less than 2,500 grams, was found among 20% of mothers with minimal pollution exposure.
In contrast, mothers with higher pollution exposure had a 36% low birth weight rate.
Dr Lelin Chowdhury, a preventive medicine specialist, explained: "Air pollution or ultra-fine particles in the air hinder the development of the foetus, affecting reproductive health significantly, leading to miscarriages, babies born with defects, and impacts on the nervous system."
Dr Kamrul Islam Sabuj, associate professor of the Neo Natology Department at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, emphasized the need for measures to reduce infant mortality, including antenatal corticosteroids, Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC), and prompt treatment of sick infants.
The government has established programs such as Scano and Kangaroo Mother Care to address the care of premature babies.
