Prevalence of Low Birth Weight and the Associated Factors, Among Neonates Delivered in Lira Regional Referral Hospital

Background: Low birth weight is a major determinant of neonatal mortality, poor perinatal outcomes and developmental disabilities. Identifying risk factors associated with low birthweight is essential for targeted interventions. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated factors of low birth weight in Lira Regional Referral Hospital. Methods: A retrospective unmatched case control study was conducted, reviewing records of all deliveries at Lira Regional Referral Hospital from January to June 2023. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 23 with multivariate logistic regression used to identify predictors of low birth weight. Results: A total of 173 records of babies with low birth weight (cases) and 173 records of babies with normal birth weight (controls) were reviewed. The prevalence of low birth weight was 11.8%. The birth weight of babies ranged from 700 grams to 2490 grams among cases with a median of 2100 grams, whereas among controls it ranged from 2500 grams to 4600 grams with a median of 3000 grams. The mean birth weight for cases group was 1999.77 grams ± s.d. 378.91 grams while the mean birth weight for control group was 3143.06 grams ± s.d. 391.49 grams. Factors that were found to be significantly associated with low birth weight in the adjusted analysis were preterm delivery (AOR=5.30, 95% CI: 2.606-10.760), post-term delivery (AOR=8.75, 95% CI: 2.296-33.333). On the other hand, parity 2-4 (AOR=0.28, 95 % CI 0.112–0.705, P=0.007), ≥ 4 ANC visits (AOR=0.48, 95 % CI 0.248–0.918, P=0.027), Having No History of LBW baby (AOR=0.21,95% CI 0.087-0.493, P<0.001), and No Antepartum morbidity (AOR=0.38, 95% CI 0.185–0.768, P=0.007) had preventive effect from low birth weight.