Prediction of low birth weight outcome in Thailand: multiple regression analysis

In the present study the risk approach using maternal risk factors for LBW newborns in Thailand is applied. The study may be considered as a managerial tool for developing local strategies and is particularly useful in maternal and child health care. The main objective is to develop a model to predict LBW outcome with an aim to screen those at risk at the level of health centres, district and provincial hospitals. Using MLR analysis, it is concluded that Model I and Model II (Table 3 and 4) can be used to predict which pregnant women are likely to deliver LBW newborns. The prediction can be made as early as the first trimester. If the prediction is shown to be accurate, the two models will be very helpful for use in Thai people. For general use, the investigators believe that Model I will be appropriate for application at the level of provincial and district hospitals, while Model II should be used at the health centre level peripheral to the health delivery system.