Assessing the Impact of Socioeconomic Status on Maternal and Cord Serum Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Levels

Abstract Objectives Omega-3 (n-3) polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are essential in fetal growth and development have been shown to modulate inflammatory processes throughout the lifespan. Previous studies demonstrated that individuals with lower socioeconomic status (SES) may be at risk for low intake of n-3 PUFAs, however, no research has compared concentrations these nutrients present maternal cord serum between markers SES. The purpose this study is assess relationship SES levels PUFAs a group patients delivering Midwest Academic Medical Center. Methods An IRB-approved enrolled mother-infant pairs (n = 55) time delivery collection samples. PUFA quantified included Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), Docosahexaenoic (DHA), total PUFAs. Markers include private vs public insurance, income ≤ 150% poverty line > 150%, college degree earners degree. Mann-Whitney U test was used differences groups. A P < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results Median gestational age 39.3 weeks. Significantly higher nutrient were college-educated mothers less than median EPA (9.44 µg/mL 5.13 µg/mL, p 0.010), (1.88 1.40 0.011), DHA (37.96 32.80 0.014), (44.23 39.34 0.024). significantly those insurance (1.79 1.18 0.022). Additionally, 1.10 0.030). Conclusions Our findings suggest pregnancy, which could increase their susceptibility adverse birth pregnancy outcomes. Future should focus on replicating results larger, more heterogeneous sample consider analyzing additional Funding Sources UNMC Pediatrics Department; Child Health Research Institute.