Overview

• The PLOS Global Public Health analysis combined satellite imagery with national health surveys from 2019–21 to assess prenatal exposure to PM2.5 and weather fluctuations.
• The study linked increased PM2.5 levels to significantly higher odds of low birth weight and premature delivery.
• Extreme temperatures and irregular rainfall patterns were also found to elevate risks of adverse birth outcomes.
• Northern districts, particularly in the Upper Gangetic region, showed the strongest associations between pollution, climate stressors and birth complications.
• Authors recommend intensifying the National Clean Air Program with stricter emissions limits, enhanced monitoring and focused maternal health and climate adaptation initiatives.