Factors associated with prevalence of low birth weight in a rural community

Introduction: The prevalence of Low Birth weight in India is 28% as compared to 6-7% among developed countries, the major burden being Intra Uterine Growth Retardation. Low Birth weight (<2.5kg) babies pose an increased risk of Morbidities and leads to impairment in growth and development. There are numerous factors contributing to low birth weights, which includes maternal, paternal and socio-demographic factors. Objectives: To study the prevalence of low birth weight in a rural community and to study the association of various factors on the prevalence of low birth weight. Methods: A cross sectional study in a rural community of South India. Study population constitutes 285 babies born during study period in the primary health center area of Vantamuri. Results: Out of 285 infants, 13.68% of the children were low birth weight (<2.5 kg). Maternal factors associated with low birth weight includes mother’s education, iron intake during pregnancy, birth order, maternal age and pregnancy induced hypertension (P<0.05). Paternal factors associated with low birth weight were literacy status, occupation and number of dependents (p<0.05). Conclusion: Majority of the factors associated with Low birth weight are preventable. The focus should be on health education and periodic monitoring of pregnant women.