Abstract
Worldwide, low birth weight is one of the most common causes of neonatal morbidity and mortality. Though factors associated with low birth weight vary from one region to another, in Gurage Zone, there is no sound analytical study done to examine the local determinants of low birth weight. Because of this, the study aimed to elucidate the predictors of low birth weight in public hospital of Gurage zone. Methods: A facility based unmatched case-control study design was employed to detect the existing exposure difference between cases and controls. The study included a total of 270 controls (normal weight) and 134 cases (low birth weight baby). Control and case participants were selected through consecutively. To collect the data, structured interviewer administered questionnaires and anthropometric measurement were used. The data were entered through Epi-data 3.1 computer program and analyzed through Statistical package for Social Sciences version 21 (SPSS v. 21). Univariate, Bivariate and Multivariate analysis were done. Result: Multiple logistic regression model analysis indicated that low birth weight was independently associated with maternal mid upper arm circumference less than 23 cm (AOR 1.79 (95% CI = 1.01 - 3.16)), gestational age less than 37 weeks (AOR 24.94 (95% CI = 12.38 - 50.27)), presence of malaria infection during period of pregnancy (AOR 3.02 (95% CI = 1.39 - 6.51)), presence of preclampsia, multiparity (AOR 2.19 (95% CI = 1.21 - 3.96)) and twining (AOR 5.42 95% CI = 2.01 - 14.59). Conclusion: Gestational age < 37 weeks, twining, malaria infection during pregnancy and maternal undernutrition were a significant predictor of LBW in the region of Gurage zone. Hence, to effectively prevent low birth weight, Gurage zone health departments should work on promotion of maternal nutrition during pregnancy, prevention of malaria during pregnancy.
Highlights
World Health Organization (WHO) defined low birth weight as birth weight of less than 2500 grams (5.5 pounds)
Result: Multiple logistic regression model analysis indicated that low birth weight was independently associated with maternal mid upper arm circumference less than 23 cm (AOR 1.79), gestational age less than 37 weeks (AOR 24.94), presence of malaria infection during period of pregnancy (AOR 3.02), presence of preclampsia, multiparity (AOR 2.19) and twining (AOR 5.42 95% CI = 2.01 - 14.59)
The majority of low birth weight in developing countries is due to intrauterine growth retardation, while most low birth weight in industrialized countries is due to preterm birth [4]-[9]
Summary
World Health Organization (WHO) defined low birth weight as birth weight of less than 2500 grams (5.5 pounds). Infants born with low birth weight (LBW) are highly vulnerable for childhood infection and under nutrition which have high rates of morbidity and mortality [2]. Low birth weight is an intergenerational problem where low birth weight infants grow up to be undernourished adolescents and, undernourished women of childbearing age, and undernourished pregnant women who deliver low birth weight infants. This amplifies risks to the individual’s health and perpetuates the cycle of poverty, under nutrition and disease. Prematurity and intrauterine growth retardations are the two general causes of low birth weight. The majority of low birth weight in developing countries is due to intrauterine growth retardation, while most low birth weight in industrialized countries is due to preterm birth [4]-[9]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
