A Gebremariam1. 1. Maternal and Child Health, Department of Population and Family Health, Jimma University, P.O. Box 480, Jimma, Ethiopia.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Low birth weight continues to remain a major public health problem in Ethiopia in contrast to what is observed in many developing countries. OBJECTIVES: To assess some of the predisposing factors to low birth weight among deliveries in Jimma hospital. DESIGN: Cross-sectional case referent study. SETTING: Maternal and child health clinic and maternity ward of Jimma University Hospital, Ethiopia. SUBJECTS: One hundred and forty seven mothers who gave birth to low birth weight (LBW) babies between June 1999 and July 2000 were identified. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Normal and low birth weight. RESULTS: The incidence of LBW was found to be 11.02%. Mothers younger than 20 years and > or =35 years, short stature (< or =150 cm), late first antenatal visit and complications during pregnancy were significantly associated with LBW (p<0.001). However, parity showed a negative association with LBW. CONCLUSION: Attention to nutritional education, early antenatal care interventions and strengthening of maternal and child health assists in combating LBW in the area.
BACKGROUND: Low birth weight continues to remain a major public health problem in Ethiopia in contrast to what is observed in many developing countries. OBJECTIVES: To assess some of the predisposing factors to low birth weight among deliveries in Jimma hospital. DESIGN: Cross-sectional case referent study. SETTING: Maternal and child health clinic and maternity ward of Jimma University Hospital, Ethiopia. SUBJECTS: One hundred and forty seven mothers who gave birth to low birth weight (LBW) babies between June 1999 and July 2000 were identified. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Normal and low birth weight. RESULTS: The incidence of LBW was found to be 11.02%. Mothers younger than 20 years and > or =35 years, short stature (< or =150 cm), late first antenatal visit and complications during pregnancy were significantly associated with LBW (p<0.001). However, parity showed a negative association with LBW. CONCLUSION: Attention to nutritional education, early antenatal care interventions and strengthening of maternal and child health assists in combating LBW in the area.
Authors: Nelly J Yatich; Pauline E Jolly; Ellen Funkhouser; Tsiri Agbenyega; Julian C Rayner; John E Ehiri; Archer Turpin; Jonathan K Stiles; William O Ellis; Yi Jiang; Jonathan H Williams Journal: Am J Trop Med Hyg Date: 2010-01 Impact factor: 2.345