Factors Associated With Low Birth Weight Among the Tribal Population in India: A Narrative Review
Arpana K Bhagat1, Ashok M Mehendale2, Komal N Muneshwar2
1School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND.
Insights
Low birth weight (LBW) affects many neonates in India, increasing developmental risks. Addressing maternal knowledge, diet, and prenatal care is crucial for prevention.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Neonatal Medicine
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Low birth weight (LBW), defined as less than 2500g, poses a significant global health challenge.
- India faces a high prevalence of LBW, exceeding global incidence rates.
- LBW infants are at an 11-13 times greater risk for developmental delays and other medical issues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the causes of LBW.
- To examine pre-birth prevention strategies for LBW.
- To explore post-birth health promotion interventions for LBW infants.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search was conducted.
- Databases used included PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar.
- Keywords included "birth weight," "abnormal birth weight," "LBWs," "neonates," "premature birth," "risks factors," "causes," "factors," "prevalence," and "frequency."
Main Results:
- Short gestation is a primary cause of LBW in high-neonatal frequency countries.
- Maternal factors such as knowledge, dietary needs, and access to prenatal services are key.
- Interventions must address these factors to reduce LBW prevalence.
Conclusions:
- Reducing LBW in India requires a multifaceted approach.
- Improving maternal health knowledge and nutritional status is essential.
- Enhanced prenatal and postnatal care are critical for mitigating LBW impacts.
Abstract:
Low birth weight (LBW) is defined by the WHO as a birth weighing less than 2500 g (5.5 lb). The highest burden of any nation is LBW infants. In countries where the frequency of neonate babies is high, short gestation is a major cause. LBW babies have an 11-13 times greater risk of delayed developmental milestones and other medical diagnoses. Greater than the global incidence, LBW prevalence is a severe public health problem in India. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using internet sources like PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar. The words "birth weight," "abnormal birth weight," "LBWs," "neonates," "premature birth," "risks factors," "causes," "factors," "prevalence," and "frequency" were searched. In this review, we examine the causes of LBW, implementation of pre-birth prevention strategies, and post-birth multifaceted health promotion interventions. The mother's knowledge, dietary requirements, and prenatal services need to be addressed to decrease the prevalence of LBWs among tribal districts of India.
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