Influence of maternal and socioeconomic factors as determinants of low birth weight among hospital delivery mothers of rural West Bengal, India

The multidimensional risk factors of low birth weight (LBW) remain a major public health concern globally and are often linked to neonatal morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to identify the key factors associated with low birth weight (LBW) among mothers delivering in rural hospitals in West Bengal, India. A cross-sectional study was conducted from August 2024 to February 2025 in a rural hospital using a structured questionnaire. Data from 1136 participants were analyzed using multivariable logistic regression through SPSS version 24. The prevalence of LBW was 21.3 % (n = 242). Significant risk factors identified included low socioeconomic status (BPL/AAY vs APL cardholders) [AOR 1.46, CI 1.06–2.01] and environmental factors (household cooking) [AOR 0.43, CI 0.19–0.65; AOR 0.35, CI 0.23–0.78] and (indoor air pollution) [AOR 2.35, CI 1.39–3.97]. Optimal birth intervals, adequate weight gain, ≥4 ANC visits, and receiving dietary advice reduced LBW, whereas abortion increased the risk of LBW. The study concludes that LBW is significantly influenced by multiple clinical and socioeconomic factors. Key determinants include inadequate maternal weight gain, fewer ANC visits, short birth intervals, poor dietary advice, and indoor air pollution from biomass fuels. Effective interventions targeting maternal health, antenatal care, nutrition, and household environment are essential to reduce LBW risk and improve newborn outcomes. • LBW prevalence 21.3 % among rural Indian mothers. • Low weight gain, prior abortion, short intervals increase LBW risk. • ≥4 ANC visits significantly cut LBW risk (AOR 7.78, CI: 1.35–44.91). • Indoor air pollution more than doubled LBW odds (AOR 2.35, CI: 1.39–3.97). • Low SES (BPL/AAY) increased LBW risk (AOR 1.46, CI: 1.06–2.01).