Question

Weight gain in pregnancy depends on all of the following factors, except:

• A. Socioeconomic status
• B. Prepregnancy weight
• C. Smoking
• D. Ethnicity

Hint:

Three options set the recommended weight gain target; one is just a harmful exposure.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Recall how gestational weight gain targets are set. The single biggest determinant is the prepregnancy weight or BMI: a woman who starts underweight is advised to gain more, and one who starts obese is advised to gain less. So prepregnancy weight (B) is a true determinant.

Step 2: Account for background factors. Socioeconomic status affects nutrition, food access, and the pattern of weight gain (A), and ethnicity influences body composition and recommended ranges (D). Both genuinely modify gestational weight gain.

Step 3: Examine smoking. Smoking is a well known cause of fetal growth restriction and lower birth weight, and it tends to lower, not determine, maternal and fetal weight. It is not listed among the standard factors that the recommended maternal weight gain is based upon. In the context of this question it is the exception.

Step 4: Conclude. Prepregnancy weight, socioeconomic status, and ethnicity are the determinants used to plan weight gain, so smoking is the odd one out.

Answer: Smoking (Option C).