"Rising Preterm Birth Rates Puzzle US Doctors"

The preterm birth rate in the US has increased by 12% between 2014 and 2022, with doctors uncertain about the exact cause. Factors such as health conditions, exposure to chemicals and air pollution, diabetes, high blood pressure, and psychosocial or environmental stressors are believed to contribute to the rise. Research suggests that exposure to "everywhere chemicals" and air pollution, including PM2.5 particles, may play a role in preterm births. However, more research is needed to fully understand the reasons behind the increase in preterm birth rates.