Factors Associated with Low Birth Weight in Mekelle City, Ethiopia
Author Information
Author(s): Teklehaimanot Gebremichael Aregawi, Gebreslasie Kahsay Zenebe, Werid Woldu Mammo, Gebresilassie Berhanu, Kidanemariam Gebregziabher, Tsegay Etsay Weldekidan, Gufue Zenawi Hagos, Mengesha Meresa Berwo
Primary Institution: Mekelle University
Hypothesis
This study aimed to determine the proportion of newborns with low birth weight and the maternal characteristics associated with it.
Conclusion
The study found a significant incidence of low birth weight, linked to late antenatal care visits, lack of nutritional support during pregnancy, obstetric complications, and preterm births.
Supporting Evidence
- The proportion of low birth weight was found to be 14.3%.
- Significant factors included late initiation of antenatal care and lack of nutritional support.
- Obstetric complications were reported in 16.6% of participants.
- Gestational age at birth was a key predictor of low birth weight.
Takeaway
This study shows that many babies are born with low weight in Mekelle, and it can be caused by mothers not getting enough care or nutrition during pregnancy.
Methodology
A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted using structured questionnaires and logistic regression analyses.
Potential Biases
Recall bias may have affected the accuracy of maternal reports regarding their health and nutrition.
Limitations
The study was conducted at a single site and included only governmental health facilities, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
Participants were primarily married women aged 20-34, with a majority being Orthodox Christians and residing in urban areas.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 1.28–10.44 for ANC visits in the third trimester; 95% CI: 1.38–12.58 for lack of additional nutrition; 95% CI: 2.76–21.59 for obstetric complications; 95% CI: 1.96–14.67 for gestational age <37 weeks.
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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