Maternal risk factors and outcome of low birth weight babies admitted to a Gujarat Adani Institute of Medical Science, Bhuj, Kutch, Gujarat, India- A cross-sectional study

Aim: Present study was conducted to know the maternal risk factors and outcome of low birth weight babies in Department of Pediatrics, Gujarat Adani Institute of Medical Science, Bhuj, Kutch, Gujarat, India. Materials and Method: Two hundred cases of low birth weight babies irrespective of gestational age, without any congenital anomalies were included, after informed consent. Detailed histories regarding maternal risk factors were taken and clinical examination done in all cases. Mothers' height and weight were recorded. The babies were followed up during this hospital stay to determine the morbidity and mortality. Results: Low maternal weight, multiparity, low socio economic status, illiteracy, inadequate antenatal care, maternal anemia, maternal malnutrition, maternal hypertension and PROM were the maternal risk factors associated with low birth weight babies. The most common cause of morbidity and mortality in low birth weight babies were sepsis, MODS, HIE, RDS, NEC, hypoglycemia, PDA, IVH, meningitis and feeding difficulties. Conclusion: Identification of high risk factors and apprsopriate management can reduce neonatal morbidity and mortality.