Researchers studying children in South Africa have investigated how exposure to HIV during pregnancy may be associated with growth during childhood, even when the child does not acquire the infection.
The prospective cohort study followed children in the Western Cape from early infancy to eight years of age. Researchers reported lower overall measures of weight and height among children who had been exposed to HIV in the womb compared with children who were neither exposed nor infected.
The differences were most pronounced during early childhood, according to the study. Researchers emphasised that early growth patterns are important because inadequate growth can be associated with adverse health outcomes later in life.
The findings highlight the importance of continued monitoring and support for children affected by HIV exposure during pregnancy. Understanding the biological and social factors contributing to growth differences may help improve long-term outcomes for children in affected communities.