When Hemoglobin Signals Neonatal Risk
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By
February 3, 2026
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3 min
A large study published in Annals of Internal Medicine shows that maternal hemoglobin concentration in early pregnancy significantly influences the risk of severe neonatal morbidity and mortality. Analyzing data from over 1.1 million singleton births in Ontario, Canada, the research reveals a U-shaped relationship between hemoglobin levels and adverse neonatal outcomes, with both low and high levels associated with increased risks. The study emphasizes the importance of early hemoglobin measurement for better maternal and neonatal health outcomes.
1. Low and high maternal hemoglobin levels are linked to adverse neonatal outcomes. 2. Study analyzed over 1.1 million births in Ontario. 3. U-shaped relationship identified between hemoglobin concentration and neonatal risk. 4. Severe morbidity includes respiratory distress and seizures. 5. Early hemoglobin measurement reduces confounding factors. 6. Reliance on administrative data poses limitations. 7. Results stress the importance of monitoring hemoglobin in early pregnancy.
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