The prevalence of low birth weight and factors associated with low birth weight delivery in Gondar Region, north west Ethiopia

Abstract

Abstract:

A cross-sectional study was carried out to determine the prevalence of low birth weight (LBW) and non low birth weight (NLBW) for neonates delivered in health centres and the Gondar College Hospital, from May )993 to January 1994. Factors associated with LBW were also analyzed. The prevalence of LBW was 17.8%. Maternal age and income were found to be associated with LBW deliveries (P<0.01 and P<0.05) respectively. Single mothers had 3 times as much risk of having LBW deliveries as compared to married ones (P<0.01). Gestational age and maternal weight were found to have strong association with LBW (P<0.01 and P<0.05) respectively. Antenatal care attendance showed a significant protective effect against BW (P<0.05).[Ethiop. J. Health Dev. 1996;10(3):149-152]