Heatwaves increase risk of early births and poorer health in babies, study finds

Pregnant people are more likely to experience heat exhaustion, according to the CDC, which can adversely affect their unborn babies. Photograph: Jose Luis Pelaez Inc/Getty Images

Heatwaves increase rates of preterm births, which can lead to poorer health outcomes for babies and impact their long-term health, a new study found.

Black and Hispanic mothers, as well as those in lower socioeconomic groups, are particularly at risk of delivering early following heat waves.