RESUMO
Background: Low birth weight (LBW) has been defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) as birth weight less than 2,500 grams. In India, 30-35% babies are LBW. LBW is closely associated with foetal and neonatal mortality as well as morbidity and has a very complex aetiology. Aims & Objective: The present study was undertaken with the objectives of ascertaining epidemiological determinants of LBW. Materials and Methods: A facility based case-control study was carried out in all the 3 tertiary hospitals of Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation during April-2012 to September-2012. A total of 100 cases weighing < 2.5 kg and controls weighing > 2.5 kg each were selected during the study period. Crude and adjusted odd’s ratio with 95% confidence interval was calculated. Multiple logistic regression was used to estimate independent effect of maternal characteristic on LBW. Results: A significant association was observed between LBW and maternal age at consummation < 20 years, maternal education, socio-economic status, inter-pregnancy interval, antenatal visit < 3, maternal height <145cm, pre-pregnancy maternal weight, habit of tobacco chewing, previous history of abortion and anaemia. These variables were further entered in multiple logistic regression model and factors such as maternal age at consummation < 20 years, inter-pregnancy interval, antenatal visit < 3, maternal height, pre-pregnancy maternal weight < 45 kg, habit of tobacco chewing, previous history of abortion and anaemia were found to be significant independent risk factor for LBW. Conclusion: For reducing LBW emphasis should be given on reducing teen age pregnancy, improving nutrition during adolescence, increasing coverage of antenatal visits, encouraging wider birth interval and avoiding tobacco chewing.
RESUMO
Background: One of the main reasons that Low Birth Weight (LBW) babies are at greater risk of illness and death is that they lack ability to control their body temperature. Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) is a powerful method to promote the health and well-being of LBW babies. Aims & Objective: To assess the knowledge and attitude of Health care providers (HCPs) regarding practice of KMC. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 7 health centres located in Ahmedabad district during February, 2012-May, 2012 among 145 HCPs. Results: Mean age and work experience of HCPs was 37.83 ± 7.09years and 7.09 ± 2.13years respectively. A total of 47 (32.4%) HCPs had knowledge regarding LBW babies. When enquired about the components of KMC, 48 (33.1%) could correctly enlist all components. Only 20 (13.8%) HCPs could correctly answer that KMC can be given by any family member. A total of 107 (73.8%) HCPs replied that KMC should be given while transporting the baby to a higher centre and for prevention of hypothermia. KMC is beneficial both to mother as well as baby and it increases bonding between mother and baby was believed by 46 (31.7%) HCPs. A statistically significant association was observed between training status of the HCPs and their total score regarding knowledge related to KMC (p<0.001) as well as their age and total score (p<0.01). Conclusion: Knowledge related to KMC was poor among HCPs, although a statistically significant association was observed between their knowledge and training status. Hence, training opportunities should be created and regular training should be conducted to enhance their knowledge.