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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Lifestyle
Nina Massey

Smokers 2.6 times more likely to give birth prematurely

Women who smoke during pregnancy are 2.6 times more likely to give birth prematurely compared with non-smokers – more than double the previous estimate, new research suggests.

The University of Cambridge study also found smoking meant the baby was four times more likely to be small for its gestational age, putting it at risk of potentially serious complications including breathing difficulties and infections.

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