Glossary

asymptomatic – showing no signs of illness.

coronary heart disease (CHD) refers to the three main arteries that supply blood from the heart.

A coronary by-pass is a surgical operation to provide a new route for blood to reach the heart when coronary arteries become blocked.

percutaneous – umbilical cord sampling see cordocentis.

methadone – a man-made opiate that used to treat heroin addiction. See also buprenorphine.

prematurity (pregnancy) – when a baby is delivered after only 37 weeks or less.