Low birthweight: aetiology and prevention in India

Low weight at birth continues to remain a major public health problem in India in contrast to what is observed in most developed and many developing countries of the world (Table I) (1). This raises several issues relating to the persistently high infant mortality and the difficulties in providing adequate care for these "at risk" infants because of the vastness of the country and its marked geographic, cultural, religious and socio-economic variations. Despite these numerous unresolved problems, those concerned with delivery of health care are faced with the stupendous task of achieving a reduction in low birthweight rate from the present estimated 30% to 10% by 2000 A.D. The present communication deals with an overall view of the problem of low birthweight (LBW) in India and suggests possible areas of action for its prevention.