Risk Factors Associated with Low BirthWeight Babies in Babylon Maternity and Pediatrics Teaching HospitalDuring 2018, a Case-Control Study

Abstract

Background: Low birth weight is defined by World Health Organization as weight at birth less than 2500 g. Birth weight is an important indicator of both mother and infant health and wellbeing. Low birth weight constitutes about 15% to 20% of births globally, and about 13.4% in Iraq. It contributes to both morbidity and mortality.Aim of the Study: To identify and assess the risk factors associated with low birth weight in infants born in Babylon Maternity and Paediatrics Teaching Hospital.Patients & Methods: This study is a case-control study conducted in Babylon Maternity and Paediatrics Teaching Hospital during the period from April 2018 through June 2018 and included information from a total of 68 newborn babies and their mothers who had their deliveries in the hospital mentioned earlier. Participants were classified into two groups based on their birth weight: cases group (birth weight ≤ 2500 g), and control group (birth weight > 2500g).Results: Study included a total of 68 infants; 21 infants with low birth weight (cases) and 47 infants with normal birth weight (controls). Significant difference was observed in maternal age between the two groups (t=-2.22, P-value=0.03). Another significant relationship was observed between maternal BMI and low birth weight (t=-2.3, P=0.027).Conclusion: There is a positive relationship between birth weight and both maternal age and body mass index, and low birth weight births were higher in mothers with younger age. Also low birth weight births were higher in women with lower body mass index.