Iraqi Postgraduate Medical Journal

Abstract

ABSTRACT:
BACKGROUND:
In Iraq, several reports documented an increase in the prevalence of low birth weight (LBW) in the last 3 decades.
OBJECTIVE:
This study was carried out to report on the rate of LBW in western Iraq during the period of widespread violence.
METHODS:
All singleton live births in Al-Ramadi Maternity and Paediatrics hospital during the period of 1st April to 1st Oct. 2006, were included in the study. All the neonates were checked for birth weight and the expanded parelled was used to assess gestational age. Multiple logistic regression was used to estimate odd ratio for LBW.
RESULTS:
A total of 400 singleton livebirth were included in the study. Over all 31% of were LBW, and 67% of them were preterm. Maternal age, parties, education, lack of antenatal care and history of LBW and prematurity were risk factors.
CONCLUSION:
LBW and preterm birth neonates are still highly prevalent in Iraq and reflect the effect of sanctions, Gulf wars and widespread violence