Prevalence and determinant factors of low birth weight in Marrakesh province, Morocco: cross sectorial survey

Abstract

Background: Low Birth Weight (LBW) is considered as the marker of infant wellbeing and the fundamental focus of infant health policy. The objective of this survey was to determine the prevalence of LBW and its associated factors in term new borns. Methods: The data was collected using an interviewer administered questionnaire. Both bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify factors associated with LBW. Results: Totally 350 mother–newborn pairs were participated in this study. Out of this, 16.7% of term neonates were found to be LBW. Of note, employed mothers, mothers having birth interval less or equal to two years, women with previous history of low birth weight and mothers living in passive smoking conditions at home during pregnancy were more likely to have low birth weight babies. Conclusion: The prevalence of LBW in our study could be considered as relatively high. It is recommended that special attention should be given to pregnant mothers to get adequate rest, attentional diet, and antenatal services available and accessible to all pregnant women. Keywords: Low birth weight; newborn; mothers; Marrakesh; Morocco.