Mothers who took the drug thalidomide during their pregnancy most often had babies who were born with which of the following characteristics?

Rationale

Mothers who took the drug thalidomide during their pregnancy most often had babies who were born with deformed limbs.

Thalidomide was prescribed in the late 1950s and early 1960s as a sedative and to combat morning sickness during pregnancy. However, it caused severe birth defects, particularly phocomelia, which results in the malformation of limbs, leading to babies being born with deformed arms and legs.

A (Deformed limbs) CORRECT

This choice accurately reflects the primary and most well-documented effect of thalidomide on fetal development. Many infants were born with shortened or absent limbs due to the drug's interference with limb growth during critical developmental stages.

B (Nearsightedness) YOUR ANSWER

Nearsightedness, or myopia, is a common vision problem that is generally influenced by genetic factors and environmental conditions. Thalidomide is not associated with causing this condition, making it an irrelevant choice in the context of the drug's teratogenic effects.

C (Intellectual disabilities) YOUR ANSWER

While some children exposed to teratogens may develop cognitive impairments, thalidomide is primarily known for its physical deformities rather than intellectual disabilities. The drug's effects were largely structural rather than neurological, making this option incorrect.

D (Hemophilia) YOUR ANSWER

Hemophilia is a genetic disorder affecting blood clotting and is not caused by drug exposure during pregnancy. Therefore, this choice does not relate to the known effects of thalidomide and is not a characteristic seen in infants born to mothers who took the drug.

E (Frequent infections) YOUR ANSWER

Frequent infections are typically associated with immune system deficiencies or other health conditions, but they are not a direct consequence of thalidomide exposure during pregnancy. This choice is not relevant to the specific teratogenic effects attributed to the drug.

Conclusion

Thalidomide's legacy is marked by its tragic impact on fetal development, particularly leading to deformed limbs in newborns. While other health issues can arise in children due to various factors, the most notable and documented outcome of thalidomide use during pregnancy is the severe limb malformations it caused. Understanding these effects is essential for recognizing the importance of drug safety during pregnancy and the potential risks involved.

Mothers who took the drug thalidomide during their pregnancy most often had babies who were born with which of the following characteristics?

Mothers who took the drug thalidomide during their pregnancy most often had babies who were born with deformed limbs.

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