RESUMO
The purpose of this document is not only to present the markedly different patterns of distributions of birthweights and their relationship to infant mortality, but also to stress the importance of promoting favorable birthweights by improvements of the health and nutrition of mothers, families, communities, and therefore countries. Several examples of experiences in specific countries illustrate the success that multiple interventions have had in achieving patterns of birthweights and rapid reductions of infant mortality. The distributions of birthweights are given for 22 distinct experiences in 15 countries of four regions of the world. As illustrated by the experiences in several countries, positive changes in distributions of birthweights- and therefore in the health and survival of infants- can be effected in spite of difficult economic, political, social, and environmental conditions. These changes require proper recognition of vulnerable population groups and the introduction of solutions to problems such as unfavorable birthweights and preterm births. This públication is intended primarily for policy makers at the national level. Project planners and managers at all levels will also find the examples useful as models for future activities