Global Research Trends On Mercury Exposure In Pregnant Women (2020–2026): A Bibliometric Analysis And Systematic Review

Abstract

Background: Mercury (Hg) is a highly toxic heavy metal that bioaccumulates in the human body and poses significant risks to maternal and fetal health. This study examined worldwide research trends and thematic areas of scientific literature on mercury exposure among pregnant women and its clinical implications.

Methods: We performed a bibliometric analysis and systematic literature review of 765 documents indexed in the Scopus database between 2020 and 2026. Data were analyzed using VOSviewer and Tableau software.

Results: The publication trend was significantly increased, with a peak of 98 documents in 2021, and the United States was the main contributor. Thematic analysis identified three primary clusters: environmental exposure (particularly methylmercury from seafood), pregnancy complications (preeclampsia and hypertension), and neurotoxicity. A systematic review showed a positive association between maternal mercury levels and adverse outcomes such as miscarriage, low birth weight (LBW), and preeclampsia.

Conclusion: Mercury exposure continues to be an important public health issue. Future investigation should be directed towards mitigation strategies for environmental exposure pathways to protect maternal health and fetal neurological development.