Risk factors associated with low birth weight in the Americas: Literature review

Abstract

Introduction: Low birth weight (LBW) is one of the main risk factors that affects infant morbidity and mortality worldwide. Approximately one third of neonatal deaths are attributable to this cause. Objective: To review the most relevant papers related to low birth weight in the Americas between 2010 and 2016. Materials and methods: Narrative literature review. The information was obtained from the PubMed, SciELO, LILACS and Portal Regional da BVS databases, using DeCS and MeSH descriptors. Results: Most of the studies were published between 2012 and 2015. Of 29 articles published, 11 (40.7%) dealt with sociodemographic factors, 9 (33.3%) with environmental risks, 3 (11.1%) with behavioral factors, 2 (7.4%) with prenatal or coverage controls and 2 (7.4%) were interrelated with other risk factors. Conclusion: Most of the studies agree on the association of sociodemographic, biological and behavioral factors. Those studies that refer to the association of LBW with environmental risk factors are growing in strength.