Pregnant Women More Likely to Quit Smoking If Given Shopping Vouchers

Smoking in pregnancy accounted for up to 30% of low birth weight babies and up to 14% of pre-term deliveries. It was also associated with increased risks for ectopic pregnancy, premature rupture of membranes, stillbirth, low birth weight and congenital anomalies such as cleft lip. Therefore, it is very important for pregnant smokers to kick the butt. A new study has revealed that pregnant women are more likely to quit smoking if they are paid in shopping vouchers.

For the study, researchers analyzed 600 participants and found that women who were paid 400 Pounds to buy products gave up smoking quicker than those who were not paid. Experts suggested that the estimated cost to the NHS of treating the after-effects of smoking in pregnancy, in both mothers and babies, is as much as 87.5 million pounds.

Nicotine Exposure in Pregnancy Increases Obesity Risk in Babies
Smoking and nicotine replacements during pregnancy increase chances of obesity and metabolic syndrome in offspring, finds new research from Canada.

‘Smoking in pregnancy is detrimental for the health of the fetus. Since it can lead to birth complications, it is recommended that pregnant smokers should quit smoking. Researchers observed that pregnant women are more likely to quit smoking if they are paid in shopping vouchers.’

Tweet it Now

In a Glasgow-based trial, participants were all assigned to the NHS GGC Stop Smoking Services, with half randomly chosen to also receive the vouchers as an incentive. The results showed that 22.5% of the participants gave up their habit compared to 8.6% of the others.

The researchers concluded that identifying pregnant women who smoke, engaging with them and supporting them to quit smoking during pregnancy was a key international tobacco policy priority.

Source-ANI

Smoking in Pregnancy Affects Grandchildren's Growth
A new study has found that the effects of smoking during one's pregnancy can span generations.

Heavy Smoking In Pregnancy Tied To Criminal Behaviour In Offspring
Mothers who puff a pack a day or more while pregnant run a 30-percent higher risk of having kids who become criminal offenders, according to a study published Tuesday.

Smoking In Pregnancy May Be Linked to Babies Who Grow Up As Criminal Offenders
A new study has pointed out that mothers who smoke heavily during pregnancy are more likely to have kids who grow up to become repeat criminal offenders.