Cascading effects of disaster-related CO exposures during pregnancy

Disaster-related carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning can occur in the event of extended power loss and subsequent use of makeshift heating and cooking elements in poorly ventilated spaces. The maternal-fetal dyad represents populations highly vulnerable to disasters and the subsequent compounding effects of CO poisoning. This study synthesizes evidence related to disaster-associated global CO exposures, reports of CO exposures in pregnancy, and associated individual outcomes in the maternal-fetal dyad. Implications related to UNDRR include Sendai Priorities I and IV: understanding associated risks and disaster risk reduction strategies to reduce the incidence of CO poisoning in vulnerable populations.

Automated summary

This study synthesizes evidence on global carbon monoxide exposure related to disasters, reports of exposure during pregnancy, and individual outcomes in the maternal-fetal dyad. It highlights the importance of reducing CO poisoning incidence in vulnerable populations and the relevant tasks of the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction.