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Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
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Low Birth Weight - Intrauterine Growth Retardation

Prevention & Expectations

What can be done to prevent the disease?

Most cases of IUGR cannot be prevented, especially if they are due to genetic causes. Some cases can be prevented by taking the following precautions:

avoiding risk factors for the toxoplasma infection, also called toxoplasmosis \ \other infections, such as hepatitis B, syphilis, and herpes zoster, the virus that causes chickenpox \ \ rubella, the virus that causes German measles\ \ cytomegalovirus, or CMV\ \ herpes simplex virus, the cause of genital herpes \ ',CAPTION,'TORCH Infections');" onmouseout="return nd();">TORCH infections

eliminating use of alcohol, tobacco, and illicit drugs

careful monitoring and early treatment for high blood pressure and diabetes

eating a diet high in folate before and during pregnancy to protect against certain birth defects

What are the long-term effects of the disease?

Long-term effects in the fetus before or during delivery include the following:

premature delivery

poor tolerance of labor

increased chances of a C-section, or delivery of the baby through an incision in the mother's abdomen

increased risk of birth defects

asphyxia, or too little oxygen, at birth, which may lead to cerebral palsy

Long-term effects in the infant after delivery include the following:

temperature instability

hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar

difficulty fighting infection

death

Complications later in childhood may include:

learning disabilities

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What are the risks to others?

IUGR is not contagious, but it does pose a risk for the fetus. IUGR may also occur in future pregnancies.

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