Maternal Knowledge Levels on Risk Factors for Low Birth Weight

Background: Low birth weight (LBW), defined as less than 2,500 grams, remains a significant public health concern globally, with multiple maternal factors influencing neonatal outcomes. Specific Background: Although LBW neonates can survive and thrive, inadequate maternal knowledge about its risk factors can contribute to preventable cases. Knowledge Gap: Limited studies in Iraq assess maternal awareness regarding LBW causes, especially in the context of sociodemographic variables. Aims: This study aimed to evaluate mothers’ knowledge of LBW risk factors during pregnancy at the Maternal and Pediatric Hospital in Diwaniyah, Iraq. Results: Among 64 mothers aged 18–45, most demonstrated fair knowledge (mean = 1.92) regarding LBW risk factors. Notably, 40.6% exhibited good knowledge on daily activities, but 35.9% had low awareness of medication-related risks. Age showed a significant correlation with knowledge (p = 0.011), while academic achievement and economic status did not. Novelty: This study uniquely identifies age—not education or income—as a significant determinant of maternal knowledge on LBW, challenging traditional assumptions about health literacy. Implications: Findings underscore the need for targeted, age-sensitive educational interventions to improve maternal awareness and reduce LBW incidence, regardless of socioeconomic status or educational background. Highlighhts: Low birth weight linked to maternal knowledge gaps. Assess mothers’ awareness of LBW risk factors. Most mothers had fair knowledge; age influenced awareness. Keywords: Assessment, Mothers, Knowledge, Risk Factors, Pregnancy, Low Birth Weight