Publication:

An insight into the prevalence of low birth weight in Madhya Pradesh

Background The objective of the study was to to find out the prevalence of low birth weight in Sanwer block in Madhya Pradesh.

Methods The study was conducted in community health center of Sanwer Tehsil (Indore district) in the state of Madhya Pradesh in collaboration with the department of Community Medicine of Sri Aurobindo Medical College and PG Institute, Indore.

Results Out of 136 cases observed till completion, 66 cases were of female neonates and 70 cases were of male neonates. Out of 66 females, 36 cases (54.54%) were below the standard 2,500 g. Out of 70 male neonates, 44 cases were below the standard 2,500 g. Average female weight at time of birth was 2.1 kg while the average female height at time of birth was 46.48 cm. Average male weight at time of birth was 2.15 kg and average male height at time of birth was 47.37 cm.

Conclusions National programmes targeting to address low birth weight are the need of the hour.