The link between omega-3 fatty acids in maternal diets and birth defects
Official title: Maternal dietary intake of omega 3 fatty acids and birth defects
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston · NIH-10848261 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how eating omega-3 fatty acids, like those found in fish, during pregnancy might affect the chances of birth defects in babies, and it's for expectant moms who want to know more about how their diet can impact their baby's health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | May 18, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $78,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R03HD110803-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10848261 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant women or those planning to become pregnant, particularly those with low dietary intake of omega-3 fatty acids.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not pregnant or those with no interest in dietary changes may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the intake of omega-3 fatty acids by mothers during pregnancy may influence the risk of birth defects in their infants. Utilizing data from the National Birth Defects Prevention Study, the project will analyze dietary information from over 40,000 mothers to determine if low consumption of omega-3 fatty acids is associated with specific birth defects. The study will categorize fish consumption into different levels to assess its impact on various congenital abnormalities. By examining these associations, the research aims to provide insights into dietary recommendations for pregnant women.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved dietary guidelines for pregnant women, potentially reducing the incidence of birth defects.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have indicated a potential link between fish consumption and reduced risk of certain birth defects, suggesting that this research builds on established findings.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Waller, Dorothy Kim — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Waller, Dorothy Kim
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.