Prevalence and Associated Factors of Low Birth Weight in Central Sudan: A Cross-sectional Study

Background: This study aims to assess the prevalence and associated factors of low birth weight (LBW) in central Sudan during the ongoing instability. Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional survey was conducted at Wad Madani, Central Sudan, from September to November 2023. Paired mothers and single live newborns were enrolled in this study. A questionnaire was used to collect medical and obstetric data. Multivariate binary regression was performed. Results: Of the 384 neonates included, 148 (38.5%) were identified as LBW neonates. After adjusting for confounders, maternal age (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 0.95, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.91–0.98, P = 0.011) and gestational age (AOR = 0.62, 95% CI: 0.53–0.72, P < 0.001) were inversely associated with LBW. Lower maternal antenatal care (ANC) level (≤4 visits) was borderline associated with LBW (AOR = 1.69, 95% CI: 0.99–2.87, P = 0.051). Parity, maternal education level, maternal residence, maternal employment, history of miscarriage, maternal hemoglobin level, and the sex of the newborn were not associated with LBW. Conclusion: LBW is a significant health issue in this region of Sudan, especially among younger mothers and those with fewer ANC visits. Increased efforts are necessary to reduce LBW deliveries, potentially by enhancing ANC services in conflict areas.