Maternal malnutrition and low birth weight

ABSTRACT

Low birth weight accounts for a large proportion of newborn infants in developing countries and is a major determinant of perinatal mortality. The bulk of these infants are growth retarded and maternal malnutrition plays a major etiological role. A maternal pregnancy weight gain in excess of the 12 kg is necessary to ensure a birth weight > 2.5 kg. It is essential that adequate nutritional assessment and supplementation be ensured during pregnancy