Genetic flaw may lead to preterm delivery

Pregnant women with a genetic polymorphism (flaw) that impedes their ability to absorb folate (folic acid), had a significantly greater risk of preterm delivery than did those without the polymorphism.

Women with both the polymorphism and low folate intake (<400> significantly greater risk of preterm delivery and a significantly greater risk of having an infant with a low birth weight than did women without a polymorphism and with a folate intake 400 µg/d.

Researchers postulate that up to 20% of the human population may carry this polymorphism and at some point should be added to the list of required tests early in a pregnancy.

American Journal Clinical Nutrition, March 2005