Prevalence, Risk Factors and Short-Term Outcomes of Low Birth Weight Infants Born during Covid Pandemic - A Prospective Case Control Study

Abstract

Introduction: Low birth weight (LBW) is a global health problem since it is associated with various short term and long term adverse outcomes. This study aimed to determine the prevalence, risk factors, and short-term outcomes of LBW infants born in Covid era in Pokhara Academy of Health Sciences(PoAHS).

Materials and methods: A prospective case–control study was done in PoAHS among the neonates born during the study period of June 15, 2021 to December 15, 2021 via convenience sampling in the ratio of 1:2.Stillbirth, intrauterine foetal demise (IUFD) multiple pregnancies and neonates with major congenital/chromosomal anomalies were excluded. The total sample size for the study was 423; 141 cases and 282 controls. Results: The prevalence of LBW was 97.8 per 1000 live births. The mothers with LBW deliveries had significantly lower body weight and height, gained less weight in pregnancy and did not consume adequate nutritious food. They belonged to lower socioeconomic status,were exposed to smoking and did hard physical work during pregnancy. Covid 19 infection increased the odds of LBW deliveries AOR 9.007(95% CI 2.135-37.994) p=0.03. Preterm LBW infants were more likely to be admitted in NICU and had increased risk of mortality(p= 0.046).

Conclusion: Nutritional, environmental, socioeconomic and maternal health related factors were associated with LBW which must be prioritized to reduce the prevalence of LBW and improve the outcome.