Determinants of Low Birth Weight Prevalence Among Children Born between May 2024 and October 2024, (in Leer County, Unity State, South Sudan.)

Low birth weight (LBW), defined as a birth weight of less than 2.5 kg, is a critical public health issue linked to neonatal morbidity, mortality, and long-term health complications. No study has been conducted to assess maternal factors determining the birth weight of neonates previously in Leer. Thus, this study aims to determine the prevalence and risk factors associated with low birth weight in Leer. The study was conducted in communities. This study investigated the determinants of LBW, emphasizing maternal, socioeconomic, healthcare, and environmental factors in a resource-limited setting. A cross-sectional study design was utilized with a sample of 168 mothers and their infants. Data were collected through structured questionnaires covering demographic characteristics, pregnancy history, maternal health, healthcare access, socioeconomic status, and environmental factors. Statistical analysis included chi-square tests and logistic regression to identify associations between LBW and potential predictors. The prevalence of LBW was 26.8% (n=45). Significant predictors included inadequate prenatal visits (<2 visits), associated with a 2.3-fold increased risk of LBW (p=0.02). Maternal anemia (10.7%) and preeclampsia (5.4%) were strongly correlated with LBW, with odds ratios (OR) of 2.8 (p=0.01) and 3.6 (p=0.03), respectively. Socioeconomic factors such as lack of formal education (82.1%) and no household income (88.1%) were significantly associated with LBW (p<0.05). Environmental hazards (85.7%) and displacement due to conflict (26.2%) also showed a statistically significant relationship with LBW, increasing the odds by 1.9 times (p=0.04). The findings reveal that LBW is influenced by a complex interplay of maternal health, inadequate prenatal care, socioeconomic disparities, and environmental stressors. Comprehensive strategies, including improving prenatal care access, addressing maternal health conditions, mitigating environmental risks, and promoting socioeconomic empowerment, are essential for reducing LBW prevalence.