Chinese researchers find link between prenatal rare earth exposure and low birthweight

A study of 4,891 pregnant women in China found an association between prenatal exposure to rare earth elements and higher risk of low birthweight. Each microgram per gram of an individual element raised odds by 25.6–51.4%, and the 13-element mixture roughly doubled them.

• Urine analysis of 4,891 women in Wuhan found 13 rare earth elements, including cerium and lanthanum
• Each 1 µg/g rise in a single element raised low birthweight odds by 25.6–51.4%
• The 13-element mixture gave an odds ratio of 2.004, with cerium contributing nearly half
• Researchers warn the link does not prove causation and larger studies are needed