A Cohort study on exploring the consequences associated with psychosocial, nutritional and maternal health in neonates of low birth weight

Abstract

Introduction: According to UNICEF approximately 20.5 million babies worldwide suffer from low birth weight, and estimates from the WHO show that one in seven live births result in low-birth-weight babies there are numerous established risk factors. [1] Low birth weight can have several reasons and is influenced by a combination of sociodemographic and biological factors, still IMR (infant mortality rate) in India is significantly higher than in the neighbouring countries of Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Nepal. To gain a better understanding of the risk factors for low birth weight in neonates and the difficulties that are still associated with this condition a cohort study was carried out. [2]

Material and methods: A cohort study was carried out in department of paediatrics, government general hospital, for a period of 6 months i.e., 2022 to 2023 after obtaining approval from institutional ethics committee. The patients were screened based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. The data was collected in designed data collection forms.

Results: Our study revealed a High Incidence of LBW complications and the maternal risk Factors. Women with Low Age of Marriage (62%) ( < 20 Years), Low Literacy Rate where 71% are in the group of (5th To 10th Class), Haemoglobin Levels (< 7 G/Dl), Gestational Age (< 37 Weeks), and The Maternal Disease Conditions Like (Anaemia (33%), Thyroid(6%), Fibroid(1%), HTN(11%), DM(5%), Oligohydramnios (7%), Fever With Rash(4%), Covid (1%) , Epilepsy(1%), Psychosocial Factors which shows the high levels of some Stress (79%) And Mild Anxiety Levels (57%), Diet Consuming Low Amount of protein diet and Vitamins, are The Independent Risk Factors Associated with Low Birth Weight. While A Higher Risk of Complications Like Respiratory Distress (69%), Acute Renal Failure, HIE (Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy) (4%), CHD (1%), Stroke (1%), Spina Bifida (2%) ,Necrotizing Enterocolitis (1%), Haemolytic (1%), Cellulitis (1%) and Deaths (11%) Were Independent Outcome of Low Birth Weight.

Conclusion: Our study has revealed that significantly associated risk factors for the birth weight of a new-born vary according to the consequences associated with psychosocial, nutritional and maternal health While a higher risk of complications. Preventing LBW by Implementing Comprehensive Strategies and Reducing the Impact of Risk Factors, can Create a Healthier Future for Most Vulnerable Children.

Keywords: Low birth weight, Maternal Risk Factors, LBW Complications, infant mortality rate.