Study: Low iron during early pregnancy bad for child

By Staff Writer

A new study indicates that iron deficiency during early pregnancy can negatively impact an unborn child's brain development.

The report, which appears in the scientific journal PLoS One, states that low levels of iron can inhibit language development and cause behavioral problems among children. Researchers from the University of Rochester Medical Center said this is the first study to show that iron deficiency during the first trimester and in the beginning stages of the second trimester has the most impact on the fetus.

In addition, the report concludes that many doctors do not notice or treat mild or moderate iron deficiency. Typically, women receive treatment only if they show signs of anemia. Researchers suggested that medical professionals should thoroughly measure a pregnant woman's iron status because low levels can have a long-term impact on the offspring.

Between 35 and 58 percent of all healthy women show some degree of iron deficiency, the study adds.

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