Low Birth Weight, the “Small for Dates” Syndrome and Perinatal Mortality in a Low Family Income Group

Summary In 1100 consecutive deliveries the “prematurity” rate was found to be 22%. Mean birth weight was 6.2 lb, or 2800 g. 17% showed a birth weight of less than 2500 g in spite of gestational age over 36 weeks. Intrauterine mortality was 4% and neonatal mortality 5%. Still births were predominantly in the antenatally neglected lower income groups and the causes of neonatal mortality is considered as mainly secondary to poor ante‐ and post‐natal care.