Maternal and socio-economic factors associated with risk of preterm low birth weight baby in rural area

Abstract

Background: Preterm low birth weight (LBW) is a major contributor of neonatal morbidity and mortality, particularly in low-resource settings. Maternal and socio-economic factors play critical roles in determining birth outcomes. Objectives: This study aimed to identify maternal and socio-economic factors associated with the risk of Preterm LBW in rural area of Bangladesh. Methods: A hospital based observational case control study was conducted from January 2024 to June 2024 in the Department of Pediatrics and Department of Obstetrics at Kumudini Women’s Medical College & Hospital (KWMCH), Mirzapur, Tangail, Bangladesh. A total of 200 newborns were enrolled, including 100 LBW cases and 100 normal birth weight controls. Data were collected through structured questionnaires, physical examinations, and interviews with mothers or caregivers. Birth weight, gestational age, maternal weight, height and socioeconomic characteristics were analyzed using SPSS version 25. Odds ratios (OR) and p-values were calculated to assess associations. Results: The mean birth weight of LBW cases was 1450g (SD±397g). LBW was more common in mothers aged <20 years (OR=1.58) and primiparous mothers (40%). Maternal weight <40 kg was strongly associated with LBW (59% vs. 28% in controls, OR=3.7, p <0.001). Mothers belonging to poor families had higher rate of LBW (55% vs 29% in control, p <0.001). Conclusion: Maternal age, nutritional status, parity, and socio-economic condition are significant determinants of preterm LBW.

DS (Child) H J 2024; 40(2): 14-19