Nigeria Times

Pregnant women using certain personal care products may be at increased risk of developing hypertension, according to recent warnings from gynaecologists and maternal health experts. This new concern arises from research suggesting that chemicals commonly found in makeup and skincare products can contribute to high blood pressure during pregnancy.

Key Findings

• Chemical Exposure and Hypertension: Gynaecologists have highlighted the risks associated with chemicals such as parabens and phenols found in cosmetics and personal care products. These chemicals, which are often used as preservatives and to extend product shelf life, can potentially disrupt hormone functions and increase blood pressure.
• Recent Study Insights: A study published in Environmental Health Perspectives found that exposure to phenols and parabens could raise the risk of hypertension during pregnancy by up to 57%. This risk is notably high between 24 and 28 weeks of gestation. The study involved over 1,000 pregnant women in northern Puerto Rico and utilized urine tests to measure levels of these chemicals.

Expert Opinions

• Dr. Joseph Akinde, an obstetrician and gynaecologist, explained that parabens mimic estrogen, a hormone that rises during pregnancy. This mimicry can lead to water and salt retention, contributing to increased blood pressure. High blood pressure during pregnancy can result in serious complications, including preeclampsia and adverse outcomes for both mother and baby.
• Dr. Daniel Erinoso, a consultant gynaecologist, noted that many personal care products contain endocrine disruptors that interfere with the body’s hormonal balance. He recommended avoiding products with known harmful chemicals and opting for safer alternatives, such as coconut oil and Vaseline.
• Professor Kayode Ajenifuja, a Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, added that chemicals like phenols and parabens could lead to reduced blood flow to the placenta, affecting fetal growth. He called for increased awareness and regulation of harmful substances in personal care products.

Recommendations for Pregnant Women

1. Avoid Harmful Products: Pregnant women should be cautious about using makeup and personal care products containing parabens, phenols, and other chemicals known to impact blood pressure.
2. Opt for Safer Alternatives: Using simpler products like coconut oil and Vaseline can help reduce exposure to potentially harmful chemicals.
3. Check Product Labels: Pregnant women are advised to select products labeled as paraben-free and to minimize the use of multiple personal care products.
4. Seek Professional Advice: Consulting with healthcare providers about the safety of personal care products during pregnancy is crucial.
5. Government Regulation: Experts advocate for stricter regulation of personal care products and better labeling to protect consumers from harmful chemicals.
   

Conclusion

The potential link between personal care products and hypertension during pregnancy underscores the need for increased awareness and precaution. By choosing safer alternatives and being mindful of product ingredients, pregnant women can help mitigate the risks and ensure a healthier pregnancy for themselves and their babies.

Recent research has highlighted a concerning link between pregnant women exposed to livestock feed and the risk of their babies developing antibiotic-resistant infections. The study, supported by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, and other researchers, underscores the dangers associated with the presence of colistin—a potent antibiotic—in imported livestock feeds.

Key Findings

• Antibiotic Resistance in Babies: Pregnant women working in poultry farms or involved in animal husbandry may be exposed to colistin through livestock feed. This exposure can result in the transfer of colistin-resistant bacteria to their newborns. Colistin, currently the last-resort treatment for multi-drug resistant infections like pneumonia, is not commonly prescribed in Nigerian clinics but is found in some imported animal feeds.
• Study Results: Gavi’s study sampled 4,907 newborns and their mothers in Kano and Abuja between 2015 and 2017. It found that 1% of these samples contained colistin-resistant genes, with 41 mothers and eight babies affected. Though this percentage seems small, the presence of such resistance in newborns is alarming.

Expert Opinions

• Immediate Action Required: Researchers and health experts stress the need for urgent action to address this issue. Recommendations include banning the importation of livestock feed containing colistin, regulating over-the-counter antibiotic sales, and implementing routine screening of pregnant women during antenatal care.
• Concerns About AMR: Professor Ben Onankpa, a paediatrician, expressed concern over the presence of multi-drug resistant bacteria in newborns. He highlighted that while the current levels of resistance are manageable, proactive measures are necessary to prevent future complications. Proper antimicrobial stewardship and regulatory actions are essential to mitigate the risks associated with antibiotic resistance.
• Calls for Policy Changes: Medical experts, including Professor Samuel Taiwo from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, advocate for stricter regulations on antimicrobial sources and emphasize the importance of using existing antibiotics wisely. The rising incidence of AMR in children and the associated death rates are of particular concern, necessitating effective control measures.

Summary

The study reveals a critical public health issue related to antimicrobial resistance, emphasizing the need for immediate regulatory actions and preventive measures. The link between livestock feed containing colistin and antibiotic resistance in newborns underscores the importance of ensuring that antibiotics are used judiciously and that preventive strategies are in place to protect both pregnant women and their babies.