Low birth weight in Jordan: a hospital-based study.

Background

Low birth weight (LBW) is one of the leading causes of neonatal and infant morbidity and mortality.

Objective

To determine the prevalence and possible risk factors associated with LBW in four regional hospitals in Jordan.

Methods

This retrospective study analyzed the medical records of all singleton live births for the period 2011-2015.

Results

A total of 22,789 singleton live births were included for this study. Of these, 4133 (18%) had a LBW. Rates of LBW increased over the 5 years study period. Factors associated with LBW were preterm birth, pregnancy complications or comorbidities, older maternal age (≥35 years), first-born infants, and having a female baby.

Conclusion

Midwives' assessment and health education messages to mothers included awareness of risk factors associated with LBW of neonates in Jordan. Effective public health interventions need to highlight the importance of a healthy diet and valuing female off-spring.