MATERNAL MALNUTRITION AND MOLECULAR MECHANISMS UNDERLYING ADVERSE NEONATAL OUTCOMES: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF GENETIC, EPIGENETIC AND PLACENTAL BIOMARKERS

Abstract

Maternal malnutrition is a leading cause of neonatal illness and death, especially in low- and middle-income countries, and severe (Grade III) malnutrition in pregnancy is associated with poor fetal growth, compromised immunity in the newborn, and increased risk of neonatal death. This systematic review reviewed evidence from 2000 to 2025 studies, sourced from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar and Cochrane Library. Of 1,268 papers, 42 were included. This evidence consistently demonstrated a strong link between severe maternal malnutrition and low birth weight, preterm birth, intrauterine growth restriction, neonatal infections, impaired neurodevelopment, and mortality. New research also highlights the role of maternal micronutrition and body mass index in predicting neonatal health. Overall, the findings emphasise the need for early detection, supplementation, and holistic maternal health strategies to improve the survival and development of newborns.