North American Registry of Midwives (NARM) Practice Exam

What respiratory condition is more common in infants born to women who smoke?

1. Acute bronchitis

2. Sudden infant death syndrome

3. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

4. Croup

The correct answer is: Sudden infant death syndrome

Infants born to women who smoke are at a higher risk for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Research has shown that maternal smoking during pregnancy can significantly increase the likelihood of SIDS, which is the unexpected death of an apparently healthy infant, typically during sleep. The mechanisms behind this association may include impaired respiratory and autonomic regulation in the infant, which can be exacerbated by exposure to nicotine and other harmful substances found in tobacco smoke. The impact of maternal smoking on the infant's respiratory system may also predispose them to other complications; however, the direct and specific connection between smoking and SIDS is particularly strong. Increased rates of SIDS in infants from smoking mothers reflect a complex interplay of environmental and biological factors, highlighting the importance of smoke-free environments for pregnant women to reduce risks to their infants.