An epidemiological study of anthropometry and physical activity of mothers as determinants of low birth weight in Wardha, India

Abstract

Introduction: Low Birth Weight(LBW) bring on an impaired growth to infant with its associated risk factors of higher mortality rate, increased morbidity, impaired mental development and risk of chronic diseases in adult hood. LBW babies are likely have developmental delays leading to start school late, dropout from school, complete fewer years of schooling, grow into stunted adult, and suffer from lower productivity and chronic diseases in future life. Prevalence of LBW in India is 22% as reported by NFHS III. Objective: To study the anthropometric and physical determinants of LBW babies in Wardha district,India. Material and Methods: A Case Control study conducted in Government Hospital Wardha, to explore the determinants of LBW. Cases were defined as single live born baby who had birth weight >2500 gms as per WHO. One control was selected for each case from consecutive live birth, who had birth weight >2500 gms in the same hospital. Information was obtained by indepth maternal interview, and medical records. Anthropometric measurement of mother and newborn baby was taken within 48 hrs after birth. Data entered and analysis done in the computer using Epi-Info 6.04. Results: Among various anthropometric and physical determinants of LBW studied, the determinants which found significant were maternal weight less than 40 Kg, gestational weight gain of <6 Kg, maternal BMI <18.5 Kg/m2 and MUAC < 23 cm, previous history of giving birth to LBW babies, maternal anemia, physical activity during pregnancy, less additional calories consumption during pregnancy. Conclusions: Maternal weight, gestational weight, maternal BMI. MUAC, previous history of LBW babies, maternal anemia, physical activity during pregnancy, less additional calories consumption during pregnancy were found significant determinants in present study.