Fetal outcomes in traditional gold mining areas, Sudan

Abstract

Background: Pregnancy during heavy metal toxicology is associated with various unfavorable consequences for both the mother and the fetus. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the fetal outcomes for pregnant women living in traditional gold mining areas in North Kordofan, Sudan. Methodology: The Obstetrics and Gynecology Teaching Hospital in North Kordofan State, El-Obeid City, Sudan, conducted this descriptive transaction case-control study from January 2018 to December 2023. The distribution of the 270 study participants was as follows: About 135 patients from traditional gold mining areas attended El-Obeid Obs. @ Gyn. Teaching Hospital for maternity services, and another 135 from non-gold mining areas as a control. Results: The average baby weight was 2.5–3.5 kg for 98 (83.7%) of the cases and 77 (74.7%) of the controls. Most study participants had healthy babies. The study involved 85 (44%) cases and 79 (65%) controls, with NICU admission following each case. 16(12%) of the cases and 18(14%) of the controls give birth to stillborn babies; 12(9%) and 6(5%) of the controls give birth to nonviable babies; 14(11%) and 18(14%) of the controls give birth to nonviable babies; and 4(3%) and 3(2%) of the controls give birth to congenital malformed babies. Conclusion: Exposure to these elements has altered the fetal development of pregnant women in traditionally gold-mining areas in Sudan.