Which of the following is a maternal demographic risk factor for prematurity?

• A. Age between 20-35
• B. Non-Hispanic white race
• C. Lower income status
• D. Higher education level

Answer: (C)

A maternal demographic risk factor for prematurity is lower income status. Women from lower-income backgrounds often face multiple challenges that can contribute to adverse pregnancy outcomes, including inadequate access to prenatal care, higher levels of stress, and a greater likelihood of engaging in behaviors that can negatively impact pregnancy, such as smoking or inadequate nutrition. These factors can significantly influence the likelihood of a preterm birth, making lower income status a recognized risk factor.

In contrast, age between 20-35 is generally considered to be the optimal reproductive age with lower associated risks for prematurity. Non-Hispanic white race does not inherently correlate with increased prematurity risk compared to other demographic groups, as prematurity rates can vary widely based on various social and environmental factors rather than race alone. Higher education levels are often linked to better health literacy and access to resources, which can lead to improved pregnancy outcomes, thus not presenting as a risk factor for prematurity.