Topic “birth defect”

By Kerstin Nordstrom (McClatchy Newspapers)

RALEIGH, N.C.— It has long been known that the behavior and environment of the mother during pregnancy can affect a newborn’s health.

But new research suggests that a father’s behavior is important, too.

Scientists at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill have found that different parental occupations may bring increased...

By Jamie Lampros (Standard-Examiner correspondent)

If you want to have a baby, don’t wait until you’re pregnant to take steps to ensure the best health for your newborn. Start beforehand.


Controlling your weight and blood pressure — as well as not smoking, drinking or taking illicit drugs and some prescription drugs — can help enormously in preventing birth defects in your...