[Obstetrical risk factors for low birth-weight in a rural Sahelian area].

The objective of this study is to identify the obstetrical risk factors related to low birth-weight in a rural environment in the Sahel region. A cross-sectional study carried out between January 1st and December 31st, 2003, recorded and registered 1013 new born children (from full-term pregnancies) from the north-central part of Burkina Faso. The adjusted odds for ratios of low birth-weight were estimated for each obstetric and pregnancy characteristic through a multiple level logic regression analysis. After adjustment for socioeconomic variables, the following were noted as significant factors which seriously increased the risk of low birth-weight: first time pregnancy (OR = 2.8), severe vomiting (OR = 3.4), heavy housework (OR = 1.6), and agricultural labour (OR = 3.3). The existence of high risk was also present in case of women giving birth at home without any medical assistance (OR = 2.1). The number of prenatal visits does not indicate or confer any direct link to prevention of risks or positive benefit on birth-weight status. In light of these results, it is necessary to redefine the content and the procedures for pregnancy surveillance and care, including and adequate management of severe vomiting and increased public awareness on reduction of house work and manual labour for pregnant women.