Risk Factors Associated with Low Birth Weight: A Cross-Sectional Study of Pregnant Women in Iraq

Abstract

Background: Low birth weight is a serious global problem, especially in low-income countries. It is estimated that 20 million LBW babies are born annually. Considering the high rate of death and the subsequent issues of these babies, it is necessary to identify the risk factors of LBW with the aim of identifying and screening before birth.

Objective: This study aims to investigate the relationship between specific risk factors and  low birth weight.

Method: This study was conducted using the cross sectional method. Sampling of 150 pregnant women was selected through convenience sampling from prenatal clinics in Iraq. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and medical records. The association between low birth weight and various risk factors, including maternal age, education level, employment status, economic status, gestational age at birth, working hours, and the number of live children was investigated. The data were analyzed using SPSS 22 , and the dependent variable (LBW ) and risk were analyzed by the chi-square test of independence and Linear-by-Linear Association, p value less than 0.05 was considered as statistical significant.

Result: Significant associations were found between LBW and gestational age at birth(χ² = 23.302, p < 0.001), working hours (χ² = 11.202, p = 0.048) , number of live children(χ² = 11.533, p = 0.009) , and the interval between pregnancies (χ² = 12.219, p = 0.007).

Conclusion: Gestational age at birth, working hours, Number of live children, Interval between last pregnancy were the risk factors associated with low birth weight.