Two of three women of childbearing age in the United States are at heightened risk for birth defects due to at least one environmental or lifestyle factor — but these factors are modifiable, new research shows.

These factors include food insecurity, obesity, smoking exposure, untreated diabetes and low folate levels, and they're associated with pre-eclampsia, stillbirth, premature birth and abnormal brain development, according to the study , published Tuesday. MORE: Looking to lose weight? The viral 'pink salt trick' doesn't work, dietitians say

"We can't underscore enough how important it is to raise awareness about these risk factors and encourage women to speak with their doctors if they have any concerns or questions before becoming pregnant," Arick Wang, the lead

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