Using omega-3 fatty acids to help pregnant smokers reduce risks to their babies

Investigating N-3 Fatty Acids to prevent Neonatal Tobacco-related outcomeS (INFANTS)

NIH-funded research Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-10677798

This study is looking at whether taking omega-3 fatty acids can help pregnant women who smoke reduce risks like preterm birth and complications for their babies, and it’s designed to find out if this supplement really makes a difference compared to a placebo.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Nashville, United States)
Project IDNIH-10677798 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the potential of omega-3 fatty acids to mitigate the adverse effects of smoking during pregnancy. It focuses on pregnant women who smoke, aiming to determine if supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids can reduce complications such as preterm birth and neonatal death. The study employs a double-blind methodology to ensure unbiased results, comparing outcomes between those receiving the supplement and those receiving a placebo. By addressing the nutritional deficiencies linked to smoking, this research seeks to provide a safe intervention for pregnant smokers.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant women who smoke and are seeking to reduce the risks associated with tobacco use during pregnancy.

Not a fit: Patients who do not smoke or are not pregnant may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a safe and effective intervention that reduces smoking-related complications in pregnancy, improving outcomes for both mothers and infants.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with omega-3 fatty acids in reducing preterm labor risk among smokers, suggesting potential for success in this research.

Where this research is happening

Nashville, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.