Effect of maternal height on neonatal outcomes in tertiary care hospital: a retrospective study

ABSTRACT

Background: Global or regional evidence showed maternal height as a strong predictor of child survival. However, there is limited information that confirms the intergenerational effect of short maternal height on the risk of offspring mortality in Bangladesh. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the association of maternal height with neonatal morbidity and outcome.Methods: In this analysis authors took data of 100 women who delivered in Kempegowda Hospital in the year 2018 including anthropometry of the mother at admission, anthropometry of the newborn, NICU admissions. Neonatal outcome was assessed by birth weight, anthropometry and NICU admissions against maternal stature which was stratified into 4 groups.Results: Comparison of mean birth weight, head circumference and length showed significant relation with maternal height (p<0.001).Conclusions: Findings should draw the attention of the programme and policymakers to focus on improving maternal nutrition for better offspring nutrition, health and survival.