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Unveiling the pathways: identifying the multifaceted determinants of low birth weight among neonates in low-income

Angefa Ayele1, Dukele Boneya1, Dube Jara1,2

  • 1Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Institute of Health, Bule Hora University, Bule Hora, Ethiopia.

BMJ Public Health
|February 28, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Low birth weight is linked to maternal factors like poor nutrition and anemia. Early antenatal care and nutritional support are key to reducing low birth weight in newborns.

Area of Science:

  • Public Health
  • Neonatal Health
  • Maternal Health

Background:

  • Low birth weight (LBW), defined as <2500g, is a global public health issue with significant short- and long-term consequences.
  • Identifying risk factors for LBW is crucial for targeted interventions and improving neonatal outcomes.
  • This study investigates the determinants of LBW in neonates born in public hospitals in Southern Ethiopia.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the common risk factors associated with low birth weight among neonates in Southern Ethiopia.
  • To provide evidence for public health strategies aimed at reducing the incidence of LBW.

Main Methods:

  • An unmatched case-control study involving 258 neonates (86 cases, 172 controls) was conducted.
  • Data were collected from public hospitals between April 15 and May 25, 2022, using consecutive and systematic sampling.
  • Multivariable logistic regression analysis was employed to identify significant determinants (p<0.05).

Main Results:

  • Key determinants of LBW included lack of iron/folic acid supplementation (AOR 2.47), inadequate meal intake (AOR 2.66), anemia (AOR 3.45), and pregnancy-induced hypertension (AOR 2.49).
  • Low mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) (AOR 6.74), late gestational age at first antenatal care (ANC) visit (≥24 weeks, AOR 7.31), and minimum food diversity (AOR 4.2) were also significant risk factors.
  • These factors collectively contribute to the increased odds of neonates being born with low birth weight.

Conclusions:

  • Maternal nutritional status (iron/folic acid, meal intake, food diversity), anemia, pregnancy-induced hypertension, and timely initiation of ANC are critical factors influencing birth weight.
  • Interventions focusing on improving maternal nutrition, managing anemia and hypertension, and promoting early ANC attendance are recommended to reduce LBW rates.
  • Further evaluation of risk factors and comprehensive maternal care are essential for effective LBW prevention strategies.
Abstract

Keywords:
Community HealthPreventive MedicinePublic Health

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