Organic Solvent Exposure During Pregnancy and Birth Defects

The teratogenic effect of industrial solvents in laboratory animals has been difficult to duplicate in humans. This prospective study examined pregnancy outcome in 125 women exposed to organic solvents in the workplace during the first trimester and 125 women exposed to nonteratogenic agents. Researchers interviewed subjects to document exposure, gestational age, medical history, and occurrence of malformations and spontaneous abortion. The substances evaluated included aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbons, phenols, trichloroethylene, xylene, vinyl chloride, acetone, and related compounds. Data were controlled for age, smoking, and alcohol use. The most common occupations were factory or printing industry worker, laboratory technician, and a…