Abstract
IntroductionNinety-two percent of Low Birth Weight(LBW) infants are born in developing countries, 70% in Asia and 22% in Africa. WHO and UNICEF estimate LBW in Kenya as11% and 6%by 2009 Kenya Demographic Health Survey. The same survey estimated LBW to be 5.5% in Central Province, Kenya. Data in Olkalou hospital indicated that prevalence of LBW was high. However, factors giving rise to the problem remained unknown.MethodsA cross-sectional analytic study was therefore conducted to estimate prevalence and distribution and determine the factors associated with LBW in the hospital. LBW was defined as birth of a live infant less than 2500g. We collected data using a semi-structured questionnaire and review of health records. A total 327 women were randomly selected from 500mothers. Data was managed using Epi Info 3.3.2.ResultsThe prevalence of LBW was 12.3% (n=40). The mean age of mothers was 25.6±6.2 years. Mean birth weight was 2928±533 grams. There were 51.1% (n=165) male neonates and 48.9% (n=158) females. The following factors were significantly associated with LBW:LBW delivery in a previous birth (OR=4.7, 95%C.I.=1.53-14.24), premature rapture of membranes (OR=2.95, 95%C.I.=1.14-7.62), premature births (OR=3.65, 95%C.I.=1.31-10.38), and female newborn (OR=2.32, 95%C.I.=1.15-4.70). On logistic regression only delivery of LBW baby in a previous birth (OR=5.07, 95%C.I.=1.59-16.21) and female infant (OR=3.37, 95%C.I.=1.14-10.00)were independently associated with LBW.ConclusionPrevalence of LBW in the hospital was higher than national estimates. Female infant and LBW baby in a previous birth are independent factors. Local prevention efforts are necessary to mitigate the problem. Population-based study is necessary to provide accurate estimates in the area.
Highlights
IntroductionLow birth weight (LBW) is birth of a live infant less than 2500g (up to and including 2499g) irrespective of gestational age
Low birth weight (LBW) is birth of a live infant less than 2500g irrespective of gestational age
This prevalence was lower than the prevalence of 22.5% in Jimma zone, South West Ethiopia [10], 13.6% recorded in Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre (KCMC) referral Hospital in Moshi, northern Tanzania [11] and 17.1% documented in Gondar University Hospital of North West Ethiopia [12]
Summary
Low birth weight (LBW) is birth of a live infant less than 2500g (up to and including 2499g) irrespective of gestational age. It is often expressed as percentage of live born infants in a given time period. It can be subdivided into very low birth weight (less than 1500g) and extremely low birth weight (less than 1000g). According to WHO technical consultation report on promoting optimal fetal development, birth weight of an infant is dependent on amount of growth during pregnancy and the gestational age, and these factors are related to the genetic makeup of the infant and the mother, her lifestyle and her status of health [3]
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