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April 14, 2026Open Access

Prevalence, Associated Factors and Outcomes of Low-Birth-Weight Neonates in Kayunga: A Retrospective Cross Sectional Study

Key Points

To assess the prevalence, associated factors, and outcomes of low-birth-weight neonates at Kayunga Regional Referral Hospital.
Retrospective cross-sectional design
Analyzed neonatal admission data from February 2023 to February 2024
Studied 1,177 neonatal admissions with a focus on 204 LBW neonates weighing <2.0 kg
Statistical analysis using STATA v15 with logistic regression for multivariate analysis
Obtained ethical approval for the study
37.4% of neonatal admissions were classified as low birth weight
Lower gestational age significantly associated with increases in LBW (AOR = 333.04)
Respiratory distress syndrome showed strong association as a factor in LBW (AOR = 0.02)
Apnea of prematurity significantly linked to LBW (AOR = 0.08)
Mortality rate was notably high among very low birth weight neonates at 44.4%

Abstract

Introduction: Low birth weight (LBW) is a major contributor to neonatal mortality globally. In Uganda, a surge in LBW deliveries has been noted. Methods: This retrospective study assessed LBW prevalence, associated factors, and outcomes at Kayunga Regional Referral Hospital from February 2023 to February 2024. Of 1,177 neonatal admissions, 37.4% were LBW, with detailed analysis of 204 LBW weighing <2.0 kg requiring inpatient care. Data analyzed using STATA v15, logistic regression done for multivariate analysis. Ethical approval was obtained. Results: Lower gestational age (AOR = 333.04; 95% CI: 57.84-1917.53; P < .001), respiratory distress syndrome (AOR = 0.02; 95% CI: 0.01-0.29; P < .001) and apnea of prematurity (AOR = 0.08; 95% CI: 0.02-0.35; P < .001) were associated with LBW. Conclusion: Mortality was highest among very LBW (44.4%). The study highlights a high burden of LBW with poorer outcomes among very and extreme LBW neonates, underscoring the need to strengthen antenatal care and neonatal care services.

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