CHEEC is dedicated to understanding the impact of environmental exposures on maternal and child health, particularly focusing on risks for preeclampsia and gestational diabetes. The center collaborates closely with the Perinatal Family Tissue Bank at the University of Iowa to conduct both prospective and retrospective studies. These studies aim to document associations between environmental exposures and health outcomes.

Key Findings from Recent Research: A study published in the journal Environmental Advances highlights several important findings related to preeclampsia. Notably, the study found that elevated sodium levels in drinking water were associated with a 38% increased risk of preeclampsia among pregnant women in Iowa. Higher sodium concentrations led to varying odds of preeclampsia, with significant associations at levels between 20-69 mg/L. Factors such as gestational age, parity, newborn count, and body mass index were strongly linked to preeclampsia diagnoses.