Factors Affecting Low Birth Weight in Term Pregnancies in Iran
Author Information
Author(s): Vahdaninia Mariam, Tavafian Sedigheh Sadat, Montazeri Ali
Primary Institution: Iranian Institute for Health Sciences Research
Hypothesis
What are the contributory factors of low birth weight in singleton term births in Tehran, Iran?
Conclusion
Maternal age, history of low birth weight deliveries, smoking during pregnancy, and chronic diseases are significant determinants of low birth weight in this population.
Supporting Evidence
- 5.2% of term births were low birth weight.
- History of low birth weight deliveries increased the risk by 2.53 times.
- Smoking during pregnancy increased the risk of low birth weight by 4.64 times.
- Chronic diseases, especially hypertension, significantly increased the risk of low birth weight.
Takeaway
Some babies are born with low weight, and this study found that things like the mother's age and whether she smoked during pregnancy can affect this.
Methodology
A retrospective study using data from 15 university maternity hospitals in Tehran, Iran, analyzing singleton term births over one calendar year.
Potential Biases
Self-reported smoking data may introduce bias.
Limitations
The study relied on hospital records, which may not capture all relevant data on low birth weight.
Participant Demographics
The mean age of mothers was 25.7 years, with a diverse educational background.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
95% CI = 1.06–6.03 for history of LBW deliveries; 95% CI = 1.97–10.95 for smoking; 95% CI = 2.25–6.06 for hypertension.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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