International Journal of Paediatrics and Geriatrics

International Journal of Paediatrics and Geriatrics

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2024, Vol. 7, Issue 2, Part B

Unraveling the threads of preterm very low birth weight babies: Identifying maternal risk factors
Author(s)
Dr. Md. Imtiaz Pervez, Dr. Ridwana Rahman and Dr. ASM Nawshad Uddin Ahmed
Abstract
Background: Neonatal mortality is among the most important indicators of health and development in global communities. One of the causes of neonatal mortality is very low birth weight.
Aim of the study: The study aims to identify the maternal risk factors associated with preterm very low birth weight (VLBW) babies.
Methods: The study conducted at the Department of Pediatrics, Kumudini Hospital in Dhaka, Bangladesh, observed 60 preterm VLBW babies over a year from [1st August, 2008] to [30th July, 2009]. Inclusion criteria comprised of birth weight under 1500 gm and gestational age less than 37 weeks. Exclusion criteria included life-threatening anomalies and the need for surgery. Detailed prenatal, natal and postnatal data were collected by history, examinations, and structured questionnaires.
Result: This study enrolled and analyzed 60 cases of very low birth weight (VLBW) babies. Among the 60 babies, 5 (8.3%) were born up to 28 weeks, 44 (73.3%) were born between 29-32 weeks of gestation and 11 (18.3%) were born between 33 to less than 37 weeks. Several maternal risk factors were observed in this study, such as prolonged rupture of membrane, previous preterm birth baby, eclampsia, hypertension, and UTI during pregnancy. The majority of the mothers (80%) had regular antenatal checkups. The incidence of VLBW decreased with parity and maternal age.
Conclusion: This study identified crucial risk factors for the incidence of VLBW babies. These risk factors might exert a great influence on the incidence of VLBW babies. Promoting health education, maternal nutrition, and increasing health services during pregnancy are important for reducing VLBW. Health professionals should identify pregnant mothers who are at risk of having babies with VLBW and ensure that women have access to essential health services on the causes of very low birth weight.
Pages: 91-95 | Views: 31 | Downloads: 11


International Journal of Paediatrics and Geriatrics
How to cite this article:
Dr. Md. Imtiaz Pervez, Dr. Ridwana Rahman, Dr. ASM Nawshad Uddin Ahmed. Unraveling the threads of preterm very low birth weight babies: Identifying maternal risk factors. Int J Paediatrics Geriatrics 2024;7(2):91-95. DOI: 10.33545/26643685.2024.v7.i2b.247
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