Body Mass Index and Pregnancy Outcomes in Thai Women
Author Information
Author(s): Tippawan Liabsuetrakul, Pravit Chaikongkeit, Suwannee Korviwattanagarn, Chulaphorn Petrueng, Surangkana Chaiya, Chintana Hanvattanakul, Pisun Kongkitkul, Chamaiporn Sinthuuthai, Noree Kalong, Darunee Ongsawang, Sirinart Ungsathapornpon, Apiradee Ameeroh, Pornwilai Bavonnarongdet, Arom Buadung
Primary Institution: Prince of Songkla University
Hypothesis
Is International or Asian Criteria-based Body Mass Index Associated with Maternal Anaemia, Low Birthweight, and Preterm Births among Thai Population?
Conclusion
Both Asian and international BMI classifications are appropriate for predicting maternal anaemia, low birthweight, and preterm birth in pregnant Thai women.
Supporting Evidence
- Maternal anaemia was detected in 27.4% of women at their first prenatal visit.
- Underweight women had a higher prevalence of maternal anaemia, low birthweight, and preterm birth.
- Overweight and obese women had a lower prevalence of anaemia according to Asian criteria-based BMI.
Takeaway
This study found that being underweight can lead to more health problems for pregnant women and their babies, while being overweight or obese can lower those risks.
Methodology
An observational study conducted in nine hospitals in southern Thailand, analyzing the effects of BMI on maternal health outcomes.
Potential Biases
Potential recall bias in self-reported pre-pregnancy weight and missing data on soil-transmitted helminth infestation.
Limitations
Self-reported pre-pregnancy weight may introduce recall bias, and the study's follow-up on hemoglobin levels was not comprehensive.
Participant Demographics
Participants were pregnant women aged 13 to 46 years, with a majority having attended primary or secondary school.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
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