Background: Child health remains a global priority, emphasized in India’s National Health Policy 2017 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This study aims to determine LBW prevalence in institutional deliveries, assess socio-demographic and maternal determinants, and examine links between maternal anthropometry and neonatal outcomes. Material and methods: This prospective observational study was conducted in the Department of Pediatrics, Government Medical College, Kota, to determine the prevalence and determinants of LBW among institutional deliveries. Data was collected from 422 primigravida mothers with singleton pregnancies. Maternal anthropometric measurements (weight, BMI, height), socio-demographic variables, and infant birth weight and length were recorded and analyzed. Results: Results revealed significant associations between lower maternal weight, BMI, and height and increased risk of low birth weight (LBW). Socio-economic disparities were evident, with mothers from lower SES categories more likely to have LBW infants. Maternal education level, antenatal care visits, and occupation also showed a notable influence on birth weight, reflecting the multifactorial nature of LBW. Conclusion: The study highlights the importance of routinely monitoring maternal anthropometric parameters during pregnancy. Addressing socio-economic disparities through targeted public health interventions is crucial to improving neonatal outcomes. Maternal anthropometry remains a simple, portable, and cost-effective method for assessing maternal and fetal health. Keywords: anthropometry; BMI; antenatal care; birth weight; socioeconomic status
Gaba et al. (Wed,) studied this question.
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