Publication:

Maternal factors associated with low birth weight babies

Background To identify and evaluate various maternal factors associated with low birth weight babies delivered at term and to find out prevalence of LBW babies delivered at term at Dhiraj hospital.

Methods A single arm cross-sectional observational study was conducted in obstetrics & gynaecology department of Dhiraj Hospital, from June 2021 to December 2021. A total 250 patients fulfilling inclusion and exclusion criteria were enrolled. Data was collected from the labour room register statistics as reference for comparison. Maternal factors like-maternal age, parity, anemia, booking status, pregnancy induced hypertension, ante-natal iron and protein supplements, tobacco addiction, placenta previa, gender of newborn etc were studied. Data were analyzed with the help of chi-square test and were also presented by visual diagrams.

Results From the study, the prevalence of LBW at term in Dhiraj hospital was around 22.36%. Out of 250 in sample group, 63.6% mothers were anemic. Almost over 50% mothers with LBW had not taken regular iron supplements. Around 67% mothers not adequately visited (4 antenatal visits) hospital during antenatal period. Primipara mothers (58%) associated more with LBW babies than Multipara (42%). Pregnancy induced hypertension and placenta previa significantly affects birth weight. Around 30% LBW show maternal history of tobacco addiction.

Conclusions Although the prevalence of LBW in India has declined over the past decade, it remains still high. Anemia is the most important modifiable factors contributing birth weight. Iron and Protein supplementation need to be attention to prevent LBW. A comprehensive global strategy is required to reduce LBW which must include multiple elements: improving maternal status, treating PIH (or other associated condition), and providing adequate maternal care.