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.
Egiru et al. (Sun,) studied this question.
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