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Updated: Jan 3, 2026

Assessment of Child Anthropometry in a Large Epidemiologic Study
Published on: February 2, 2017
Customized birthweight standard for an Iranian population
K Nasri1, S Hantoushzadeh2, O Hugh3
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran.
This study developed a customized birthweight standard for Iran, identifying key maternal and paternal factors influencing fetal growth. This standard helps differentiate between constitutional and pathological small for gestational age infants, improving perinatal care.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Perinatal Medicine
- Public Health
Background:
- Accurate birthweight standards are crucial for assessing fetal growth and identifying potential health risks.
- Existing birthweight charts may not accurately reflect the diverse genetic and environmental factors present in specific populations.
- A customized standard is needed for Iran to improve the interpretation of fetal growth parameters.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish a customized birthweight standard tailored to the Iranian population.
- To identify significant physiological and pathological factors affecting birthweight in Iran.
- To enhance the clinical distinction between constitutionally small and pathologically growth-restricted fetuses.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of a pregnancy database from five Iranian hospitals.
- Inclusion of 4994 term births with complete data (July 2013 - November 2014).
- Application of backwards stepwise multiple regression to derive birthweight prediction coefficients.
Main Results:
- Maternal height, pre-pregnancy weight, parity, and infant sex significantly influenced birthweight.
- Paternal height and weight were identified as significant, albeit weaker, predictors.
- Pathological factors including village housing, anemia, diabetes, and preeclampsia were associated with altered birthweights.
Conclusions:
- The study confirmed known physiological predictors of birthweight and highlighted the significance of paternal factors in the Iranian context.
- A country-specific birthweight standard can aid Iranian clinicians in better identifying fetuses at risk.
- Improved identification of growth deviations can lead to reduced unnecessary interventions and better perinatal outcomes.
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