Certificate In Psychology (CPSY) Practice Exam

Tobacco exposure is linked to which of the following teratogenic effects on newborns?

1. physical birth defects

2. increased risk of neonatal death.

3. low birth weight

4. all of these

The correct answer is: all of these

Tobacco exposure during pregnancy is associated with multiple teratogenic effects that can significantly impact newborns. All of the listed effects are indeed consequences of maternal smoking. Physical birth defects can arise due to the harmful substances in tobacco that affect fetal development, leading to a variety of congenital anomalies. The exposure to nicotine and other toxins can disrupt normal growth patterns and organ development. Furthermore, there is an increased risk of neonatal death associated with maternal smoking. Research has shown that babies born to mothers who smoke are at a higher risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and other complications that can lead to mortality shortly after birth. Low birth weight is another critical outcome, as tobacco use can restrict fetal growth orchestrated by inadequate placental function and oxygen supply. Babies born with low birth weight face higher risks for health complications, both immediately after birth and later in life. Given that tobacco exposure during pregnancy can lead to all of these significant health risks, the comprehensive option recognizing that all these effects are linked to tobacco exposure is the most accurate choice.