Preterm and other babies with low birthweights in Ibadan

Earlier studies on the incidence of low birthweight babies were unanimous in the belief that this is a peculiarity of the developing countries, especially of the negro race. However, the more recent studies have shown that the differences in the incidence of low birthweights between the developed and developing countries might be due to other factors. In a study of birthweights in Ibadan, Nigeria, evidence was presented which showed that the level of socio-economic standards, rather than the peculiarity of geographical location or race, accounted for a high percentage of low birthweight babies. The various other factors associated with low birthweight babies in Ibadan were also highlighted.