Research News:
Obese moms linked to birth defects
A study says overweight mothers are more likely than those of healthy weight to give birth to babies with defects.
By Lindsey Tanner The Associated Press
Article Last Updated: 08/07/2007 12:31:26 AM MDT
Chicago - Women who are obese before pregnancy face a higher risk of having babies with a variety of birth defects than women with a healthy weight, a new study suggests. The results involving nearly 15,000 women from eight states found abnormalities of the spine, heart, arms, legs and abdomen, building on previous research that showed heart and spine defects. The greatest risk was for spina bifida.

The Research:
Read the research behind this story in the Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine.