Prenatal exposure to residential greenness, fetal growth, and birth outcomes: a cohort study in New York City

Abstract

Findings for greenspace’s impacts on birth outcomes are largely dependent on vegetation indexes. Examinations are needed for various greenspace indicators given varying pathways for fetal development. This prospective cohort study assessed the impacts of prenatal greenspace exposure on preterm birth (PTB), term low birthweight (TLBW), birthweight, and estimated fetal weight (EFW) for pregnant women in the New York City area, 2016-2023 (n = 2765). Longitudinal greenspace exposure was measured for residential histories during pregnancy using the enhanced vegetation index for 1000 m buffers and four park metrics, namely, the total number, sum of area, and the accessibility of parks within residential buffers (500 m) and the distance to the closest park. Multivariable regression models were used to estimate the associations for quartiles of exposure (with the first quartile [Q1] as reference). Greenspace exposure was not associated with TLBW, birthweight, or EFW. Odds ratios of PTB for the Q2, Q3, and Q4 enhanced vegetation index exposure groups compared to the Q1 group were 0.65 (95% CI, 0.43-0.98), 0.51 (95% CI, 0.32-0.80), and 0.56 (95% CI, 0.35-0.90), respectively. Preterm birth risks decreased in higher exposure groups (Q2-Q4) of the total park number. Results indicate the benefits of prenatal greenspace exposure for fetal maturity and neonatal outcomes.