Prevalence and risk factors of low birth weight in Jos

Abstract

This study examines the Prevalence and factors associated with low birthweight (LBW) in Jos.208 babies delivered by 208 women in Jos University Teaching Hospital, (JUTH) were studied over an eight week ( 12th February to 11th April 2003. A cross-sectional study was done and the sample gotten by systematic sampling of all the babies delivered. Mean birth weight of the infants was 3.08±1.319 (range 0.904 to 4.005) kg. The prevalence of LBW was found to be 12.7 %. LBW has bivariate associations with mother's educational status, height, and health problems during pregnancy, use of antenatal care facilities, and gestational age. No association was found between LBW and mother's occupation. Although antenatal care provision is absolutely necessary, intervention approaches that go beyond clinical or primary care settings are also warranted for better nutrition of women. Concerted efforts in health and non-health sectors are necessary for improvement in health and social status of women in order to reduce low birthweight.