Maternal socio-demographic and obstetric determinants for low birth weight in maternity hospitals in Asmara, Eritrea: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: Birth weight of the neonate is a good proxy indicator of the newborn’s chances for survival, growth, health and psychosocial development. This study is aimed at determining the maternal socio-demographic and obstetrical factors for low birth weight (LBW) and its prevalence. Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was employed using questionnaires and birth weight measurement of the neonate on 806 mother-neonate pairs. Results: The prevalence rate of low birth weight at the selected hospitals at the study period was 9.1% (95% CI = 7.1% - 11.0%). LBW was associated with marital status, sex of the neonate, partner employment status, socio-economic position of the household, number of ANC visits, gravidity, utilization of modern Family Planning (FP) methods and illnesses during current pregnancy. Conclusion: This study identified various socio-economic, demographic, obstetric and health service utilization factors. It is therefore recommended that multifaceted and coordinated measures to address these issues are required to reduce LBW to its lowest level.