Fact check: Air pollution can harm pregnant women and increase risk of miscarriage

Fiona Mpofu

Claim: “ I want us to spare some thought  for pregnant young ladies who are miscarrying because of the toxic fumes emanating from Ngozi mine.” 

Source: Ntandoyenkosi Ndlovu on X

Verdict: True 

During the 3394th Full Council Meeting, Ward 28 Councillor Ntandoyenkosi Ndlovu raised concerns about the toxic fumes emitted from Ngozi Mine. 

He pointed out that the emissions are affecting residents of Cowdray Park, which is located in close proximity to the mine. Councillor Ndlovu further cautioned that prolonged exposure to these harmful gases could negatively impact the suburb’s population growth, as it may lead to pregnancy complications such as miscarriages.

1. Air pollution can negatively impact a pregnant woman’s health, her ability to carry the pregnancy to term, and the baby’s birth weight. It may also lead to pregnancy loss, either in the early or later stages.

2. Exposure to air pollution during pregnancy has been connected to harmful effects on birth outcomes, including delivering underweight babies, giving birth before full term, and infants being undersized for their developmental stage.

Source: UNICEF

Conclusion

Though there are no reports available showing the number of miscarriages due to the toxic smoke emitted from Ngozi Mine, evidence shows that exposure to air pollution can, indeed, cause complications on pregnant mothers, in some cases, leading to miscarriages.