Factors associated with low birthweight in term pregnancies: a matched case-control study from rural Pakistan.

ABSTRACT

Low birthweight (LBW) remains a significant public health problem in Pakistan and further understanding of factors associated with LBW is required. We conducted a hospital-based matched case control study to identify risk factors associated with LBW in a rural district of Pakistan. We found that illiteracy (AOR 2.68; 95% CI 1.59 - 4.38), nulliparity (AOR 1.82; 95% CI 1.26-2.44), having a previous miscarriage/abortion (AOR 1.22; 95% CI 1.06-2.35), having < 2 antenatal care (ANC) visits during last pregnancy (AOR 2.43; 95% CI 1.34-2.88), seeking ANC in third trimester (AOR 3.62; 95% CI 2.14-5.03), non-use of iron folic acid during last pregnancy (AOR 2.72; 95% CI 1.75-3.17), having hypertension during last pregnancy (AOR 1.42; 95% CI 1.13-2.20), being anemic (AOR 2.67; 95% CI 1.65-5.24) and having postpartum weight of <45 kg (AOR 3.30; 95% CI 1.97-4.52) were significantly associated with an increased odds of having a LBW baby. Our study identifies modifiable risk factors requiring immediate commitment from the health authorities.