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Science · 9 September 2026

Babies of anaemic mothers have 4% smaller brains

Babies of anaemic mothers have 4% smaller brains

Image by kseniajoyg on Freepik

Infants whose mothers experienced anaemia possess brains approximately 4% smaller, particularly in regions governing movement, learning, and emotion. Researchers from King's College London and the University of Cape Town followed over 300 mothers and babies in Cape Town. These differences were still present at age six, suggesting potential cognitive problems when children start school.

Reported by Guardian · How we write briefs

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Why is brain size important? What is anaemia? What are cognitive problems?

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