Pre-term births is the most common reason for Black babies dying over 2.4 times the rate of White babies according to the CDC. Research has shown that pollution in low income communities has a lot to do with this. A study on environmental injustice and inequality showed that air pollution is an environmental and racial issue. The results speak for themselves as minorities are affected by air pollution at greater rates than Whites.
Dr. Candice Jones explained to BlackDoctor.org,”Air pollution has been shown to have negative health effects and even cause death in industrialized areas across the globe. Therefore, I am not surprised that it is also being associated with negative birth outcomes, specifically premature births.”
She adds that living in a toxin-free bubble isn’t possible but there are some ways to improve the air quality around you while pregnant.
Check the Air Quality
Dr. Jones said the State of the Air app or AIRNOW.GOV are good places to look for the air quality. The State of the Air app is made by the American Lung Association and gives you the ability to see what your lungs are intaking from anywhere in the United States. It provides a daily updated air quality index with ozone and pollution counts and provides a forecast for tomorrow’s air quality forecast. One of the cool things about this app is that it also allows you to message lawmakers about your concerns.
Stay Away From Congested Areas
“If possible steer clear from more crowded-congested areas, off of major roadways, transportation lines and away from major highways.” according to Dr. Jones. The exposure of air pollutants from the exhaust of vehicles can cause lung and heart problems and premature death according to the US Environmental Protection Agency. (EPA)
“We clearly need more regulatory interventions to decrease emissions of air pollutants from transportation, industry and even personal coal and wood burning in order to reach safer environmental levels. Then we might see reduction in associated premature birth rates in high risk regions,” said Dr. Jones.
Keep the Outside at the Door
Dr. Jones says it’s a good idea to place a large floor mat at every door. This keeps dirt, pesticides and other pollutants from entering your home. You’ll also want to remove any outer layers or shoes before stepping into your living area. Your clothes often contain dust and other allergens that could aid in decreasing the air quality in your home.
Ventilation is Key
Your stoves, fireplaces, heaters, range tops and exhaust fans should be well ventilated. The EPA recommends that these sources be vented to the outside far away from windows, heating ventilation and air conditioning intakes.
No Wood Burning
According to the New Hampshire Department of Health Services air containing wood smoke causes serious health risks to pregnant women. Wood smoke contains a number of harmful pollutants and potentially carcinogenic material such as: fine particulates, nitrogen oxides, sulfur oxides, carbon monoxide, volatile organic compounds, dioxins and furans.
Effective Vacuuming is a Must
When vacuuming your home use a HEPA filter to reduce the amount of dirt, toxins and lead in your home. The vacuum should also come equipped with rotating brushes and strong suction capabilities to reach that deeply ingrained dirt on carpet. In areas where there’s a lot of foot traffic be sure to vacuum over these areas several times. Vacuum at least two or more times a week and clean your filter regularly.
Use Microfiber Mops
What vacuuming won’t pick up, use a wet microfiber mop or cloth to remove the remaining dust and allergens. Most new microfiber don’t require any added cleaning solutions; plain water will due just fine according to the EPA.
No Smoking
This should go without being said, but absolutely no smoking in or around the household should be done while pregnant. Smoke fumes can also be trapped inside of the clothes of people who smoke, so make sure your laundry baskets are in rooms far away from you.
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