Maternal Factors Affecting Birth Weight in Sudan
Author Information
Author(s): Elshibly Eltahir M, Schmalisch Gerd
Primary Institution: University of Khartoum, Sudan
Hypothesis
The study aims to quantify the effect of maternal anthropometry, education, and socio-economic status on gestational age and birth weight.
Conclusion
Birth order and maternal height were found to be the most important maternal parameters influencing birth weight and the risk for low birth weight (LBW).
Supporting Evidence
- Maternal height was significantly correlated with gestational age (p = 0.002).
- The LBW rate of first born babies was 12.2%, nearly twice that of infants of multiparous mothers.
- Maternal age and all anthropometric measurements were positively correlated with birth weight (p < 0.001).
- The LBW rate decreased from 9.2% for ≤ 8 years of education to 6.0% for >12 years of education.
Takeaway
Moms who are taller and have more children tend to have heavier babies, while education helps reduce the chances of having a small baby.
Methodology
The study involved measuring maternal anthropometric characteristics and recording education and socio-economic status in 1000 mothers with singleton births.
Potential Biases
Potential biases may arise from self-reported education and socio-economic status.
Limitations
The study may not account for all factors influencing birth weight, and anthropometric measurements taken before pregnancy may not be available in many cases.
Participant Demographics
The study included 1000 Sudanese mothers, with a majority belonging to low social class and a significant number having ≤ 8 years of education.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.002 for maternal height correlation with gestational age; p < 0.001 for birth weight correlations.
Confidence Interval
95% CI for AUC values reported in the study.
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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