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Mixed-methods, descriptive and observational cohort study examining feeding and growth patterns among low birthweight

Linda Vesel1, Lauren Spigel2, Jnanindra Nath Behera3

  • 1Ariadne Labs, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health / Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA lvesel@ariadnelabs.org.

BMJ Open
|December 3, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Optimizing feeding for low birthweight (LBW) infants in low-resource settings is crucial for reducing newborn deaths. The LIFE study investigates feeding patterns and outcomes in these vulnerable infants to inform evidence-based strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Global child health
  • Neonatal nutrition
  • Low- and middle-income country (LMIC) health systems

Background:

  • Preventable newborn and child deaths necessitate effective strategies for low birthweight (LBW) infants (<2.5 kg).
  • LBW infants, predominantly in LMICs, contribute significantly to neonatal mortality (60-80%).
  • Tailored feeding promotion is vital for reducing mortality and promoting growth in LBW infants.

Purpose of the Study:

  • The Low Birthweight Infant Feeding Exploration (LIFE) study aims to build foundational knowledge on optimal feeding for LBW infants in resource-limited settings.
  • To identify effective feeding strategies that promote growth and survival throughout infancy.

Main Methods:

  • A formative, multisite, observational cohort study utilizing a convergent parallel, mixed-methods design.
  • Involves 12 study facilities across India, Malawi, and Tanzania.
  • Assesses feeding patterns, growth, morbidity, mortality, child development, and health system factors.

Main Results:

  • Data collection on feeding practices, infant growth, health outcomes, and care facilitators/hindrances is ongoing.
  • Analysis will focus on identifying key factors influencing LBW infant survival and development in LMICs.

Conclusions:

  • Establishing evidence-based feeding guidelines is essential for improving LBW infant outcomes in LMICs.
  • Findings will inform interventions to reduce neonatal mortality and enhance child survival globally.
Abstract

Keywords:
epidemiologyneonatologynutrition & dieteticspublic healthqualitative research

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