Impact of Improved Biomass and Liquid Petroleum Gas Stoves on Birth Outcomes in Rural Nepal: Results of 2 Randomized Trials
Joanne Katz, James M. Tielsch, Subarna K. Khatry, Laxman Shrestha, Patrick N. Breysse, Scott L. Zeger, Naoko Kozuki, William Checkley, Steven C. LeClerq, Luke C. Mullany
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Few randomized trials have assessed the impact of reducing household air pollution from biomass stoves on adverse birth outcomes in low-income countries. METHODS: ) and carbon monoxide (CO) were assessed before and after stove installation. Prevalent and incident pregnancies were enrolled at baseline and throughout the trials. Birth anthropometry was compared across differing exposure times in pregnancy. RESULTS: in those with LPG stoves. Mean birth weight was 2780 g (SD=427) and 2742 g (SD=431), among households with vented and LPG stoves, respectively. Respective percentages for LBW, SGA, and preterm were 23%, 13%, and 42% in the vented stove group and not statistically different from 31%, 17%, and 42% in the LPG group. CONCLUSIONS: . Trials that lower indoor air pollution further are needed.