Antenatal anaemia linked to autism

Women should be screened for iron deficiency early in pregnancy, researchers say
Mother and baby

Maternal anaemia diagnosed before 31 weeks’ gestation is associated with an increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders in offspring, a study shows.

Swedish researchers have found that anaemia in early pregnancy is linked to double the risk of the child having an intellectual disorder, and also to increased risks of autism and ADHD.