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Assessment of Child Anthropometry in a Large Epidemiologic Study
Published on: February 2, 2017
Predictors of birthweight--a cross sectional study
C J Anitha1, M K C Nair, K Rajamohanan
1Clinical Epidemiology Research and Training Centre (CERTC), Medical College, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India. anithacj_62@hotmail.com
Indian Pediatrics
|March 13, 2009
Summary
Maternal height, parity, gestational age, pregnancy-induced hypertension, and previous low birthweight history significantly predict infant birthweight in Kerala. These factors are crucial for understanding and potentially improving birth outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Public Health
- Human Biology
Background:
- Birthweight is a critical indicator of neonatal health and long-term development.
- Identifying predictors of birthweight is essential for targeted interventions and improved maternal and child health outcomes.
- Previous studies have explored various factors, but population-specific data is vital.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify anthropometric, biosocial, and obstetric predictors of birthweight in a specific population in Kerala.
- To provide data that can inform public health strategies for improving infant birthweight.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 599 liveborn babies and their mothers at SAT Hospital, Medical College, Thiruvananthapuram.
- Data collection included maternal history, anthropometric measurements, and biosocial and demographic factors.
- Multivariate analysis was employed to determine significant predictors of birthweight.
Main Results:
- Maternal height (P <0.001), parity (P < 0.001), and gestational age (P < 0.001) were highly significant predictors of birthweight.
- Pregnancy-induced hypertension (P=0.05) and a history of low birthweight in a previous pregnancy (P=0.05) also showed a statistically significant association with infant birthweight.
Conclusions:
- Maternal height, parity, gestational age, pregnancy-induced hypertension, and prior low birthweight history are key predictors of infant birthweight in this Kerala population.
- These findings highlight the importance of maternal characteristics and obstetric history in determining birth outcomes.
- The results can guide clinical practice and public health initiatives aimed at reducing low birthweight rates.
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