Factors associated with low birthweight in term pregnancies: a matched case–control study from rural Pakistan

ABSTRACT

Low birthweight [LBW] remains a significant public health problem in Pakistan and further understanding of factors associated with LBW is required. We conducted a hospital-based matched case control study to identify risk factors associated with LBW in a rural district of Pakistan. We found that illiteracy [AOR 2.68; 95% CI 1.59 - 4.38], nulliparity [AOR 1.82; 95% CI 1.26-2.44], having a previous miscarriage/abortion [AOR 1.22; 95% CI 1.06-2.35], having < 2 antenatal care [ANC] visits during last pregnancy [AOR 2.43; 95% CI 1.34-2.88], seeking ANC in third trimester [AOR 3.62; 95% CI 2.14-5.03], non-use of iron folic acid during last pregnancy [AOR 2.72; 95% CI 1.75-3.17], having hypertension during last pregnancy [AOR 1.42; 95% CI 1.13-2.20], being anemic [AOR 2.67; 95% CI 1.65-5.24] and having postpartum weight of <45 kg [AOR 3.30; 95% CI 1.97-4.52] were significantly associated with an increased odds of having a LBW baby. Our study identifies modifiable risk factors requiring immediate commitment from the health authorities