Relationship between low birth weight of babies and antenatal care of mothers: A cross sectional study at a tertiary care hospital of Kishanganj, Bihar

Abstract

Background

Low birth weight (LBW) is important risk factor for childhood morbidity and

mortality thus an important public health concern.

Aim

To identify the maternal determinants associated with LBW of babies

Setting

M.G.M Medical college & L.S.K Hospital Kishanganj ,Bihar.

Design

Hospital based cross sectional study

Study period

January 2014 to March 2014

Methodology

Institution based descriptive cross sectional study from February 2014 to April

1. All postnatal women (190) with singleton apparently healthy babies

during the study period were selected for study. Birth weight of babies was

recorded, mothers were interviewed and antenatal cards were reviewed.

Result

34% of newborns were found to be low birth weight in our study. Statistically

significant association was found between Low birth weight of babies and mother’s age, religion, literacy of

mother, consumption of IFA tablets and regular ANC checkup during pregnancy.

Conclusion

The study suggests various maternal factors influence the birth weight of newborn babies and by improving

antenatal care services both in coverage and quality we can reduce infant mortality in country.