Abstract
BackgroundThe World Health Organisation has recommended the use of anthropometric measurements as birth weight surrogates. However, it has been found that cut-off points for these anthropometric measurements vary across nations and ethnic groups.ObjectivesTo determine the predictive values of chest circumference (CC), occipito-frontal circumference (OFC) and their combinations for low birth weight (LBW) detection in Igbo newborns.MethodsLive newborns of Igbo origin were recruited within 24 hours of delivery. Their CC, OFC and weight were measured. Cut off points for predicting low birth weight was determined using ROC analysis.ResultsA total of 511 live newborns were recruited. For birth weight <2500 g, cut-off values were: CC 30.9 cm; OFC 33.8 cm; summation of CC and OFC 64.9 cm; ratio of CC to OFC 0.92. For weight <2000 g, the cut-off values were: CC 29.6 cm; OFC 32.8 cm; summation of CC and OFC 63.7 cm; ratio of CC to OFC 0.91. CC correlated best with birth weight (r = 0.918).ConclusionCC is the best predictor for LBW.
Highlights
Birth weight is a critical determinant of survival, growth and development of the newborn and a valuable indicator of maternal health, nutrition and quality of antenatal services [1]
Newborns weighing less than 2500 grams are described as low birth weight (LBW) and have a greater risk of morbidity and mortality [2]
Inclusion criteria include live newborns delivered at the study centers, irrespective of gestational age, sex or mode of delivery and whose parents are of Igbo tribe
Summary
Birth weight is a critical determinant of survival, growth and development of the newborn and a valuable indicator of maternal health, nutrition and quality of antenatal services [1]. Newborns weighing less than 2500 grams are described as low birth weight (LBW) and have a greater risk of morbidity and mortality [2]. Birth weight measurement is an important screening tool for detecting the newborn at risk with special reference to low birth weight. Objectives: To determine the predictive values of chest circumference (CC), occipito-frontal circumference (OFC) and their combinations for low birth weight (LBW) detection in Igbo newborns. Methods: Live newborns of Igbo origin were recruited within 24 hours of delivery. Their CC, OFC and weight were measured. Cut off points for predicting low birth weight was determined using ROC analysis
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