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Updated: Jul 26, 2026
09:36
Assessment of Child Anthropometry in a Large Epidemiologic Study
Published on: February 2, 2017
Birthweight distribution at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, Ghana
C A Klufio1, A T Lassey, B D Annan
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Ghana Medical School, P.O. Box 4236, Accra, Ghana.
East African Medical Journal
|March 30, 2002
Summary
Low birthweight affects 13.3% of babies at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital. Antenatal malaria chemoprophylaxis and a history of low birthweight are significant risk factors for low birthweight infants.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Pediatrics
- Public Health
Background:
- Birthweight is a critical indicator of neonatal health and survival.
- Understanding birthweight distribution and associated factors is crucial for targeted interventions in developing countries.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the birthweight distribution of singleton births at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital.
- To identify socio-demographic and reproductive factors associated with birthweight in this setting.
Main Methods:
- A non-randomized cross-sectional survey was conducted.
- Data were collected from antenatal/delivery records and questionnaires.
- 866 singleton births were enrolled between November and December 1994.
Main Results:
- The mean birthweight was 3070 g (±616 g), with 13.3% of infants classified as low birthweight.
- Lack of antenatal malaria chemoprophylaxis and previous low birthweight history were significantly associated with low birthweight.
- Mean birthweight for term infants with reliable dates was 3262 g (±488.8 g).
Conclusions:
- Korle-Bu babies' mean birthweight is comparable to other developing countries, though lower than in the USA/UK.
- Antenatal malaria chemoprophylaxis is a feasible intervention to improve birthweight and reduce low birthweight risk.
- Addressing malaria prevention during pregnancy can positively impact neonatal outcomes.
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