Association of Higher Maternal Serum Fluoride with Adverse Fetal Outcomes

Background: Despite prevalence of fluorosis in India, previous studies did not emphasize on the effect of maternal fluorosis on fetal outcomes. Objectives: To study the associations of higher maternal serum Fluoride (F) with low birth weight and poor APGAR count. Methods: One hundred and eight apparently healthy pregnant women aged 17-36 years were included in the study. Samples collected were maternal and cord blood, placenta and drinking and ground water. The samples were processed and analyzed for Fluoride. Fetal gestational age was measured on ultrasound scan and the birth weight of the baby on a digital scale. Fifth minute APGAR score was measured. Results: A significant negative correlation was found for maternal serum F vs Birth weight, Gestational Age and APGAR score. Significant negative correlations were also found for cord serum F vs Birth Weight, Gestational Age and APGAR score. Fairly negative correlations were also found for birth weight, APGAR score and Gestational age compared to Fluoride concentrations in maternal surface of placenta, fetal surface of placenta and marginal side of the placenta. However, significant positive correlations were observed when Gestational age was compared with Birth weight and APGAR score. When the maternal serum F was greater than 1 ppm, there was 10.58 times higher risk for low birth weight, 8.65 times higher risk for preterm delivery and 3.8 times higher risk for low APGAR score. When the cord serum F was greater than 0.22 ppm, there was 2.76 times higher risk for low birth weight, 4.6 times higher risk for preterm delivery and 2.5 times higher risk for low APGAR score. Conclusion: With increased serum F in the mother, there is an inclination towards pre term delivery, low birth weight and poor APGAR count.