Sonali Bose, MD, MPH

Pregnant women are at elevated risk for uncontrolled asthma. Loss of maternal asthma control has significant consequences for the health of the mother, as well as the growth and development of the baby. Black and Hispanic women in the U.S. have a disproportionate burden of asthma, and are also at increased risk for pregnancy complications, compared to their White counterparts. There are limited strategies for pregnant women to improve their asthma; however, a diet high in Omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce asthma-associated inflammation during pregnancy. We will investigate Omega-3 fatty acid status among a diverse cohort of pregnant women across two sites and determine if higher Omega-3 intake is associated with improved asthma during pregnancy. We will also explore if the metabolites of Omega-3 fatty acids that are known to resolve inflammation could explain these associations.