Understanding Low Birth Weight: Causes & Risk Factors

Factors associated with LBW:

* Maternal factors:

- Maternal age (<18 or >35 years)

- Low maternal weight

- Inadequate weight gain during pregnancy

- Short interpregnancy interval

- Multiple pregnancy

- Pregnancy-induced hypertension

- Preeclampsia

- Eclampsia

- Gestational diabetes

- Chronic medical conditions (e.g., heart disease, kidney disease, diabetes, thyroid disease)

- Substance use (e.g., smoking, alcohol, drugs)

- Poor nutrition

* Fetal factors:

- Preterm birth

- Intrauterine growth restriction

- Genetic factors

- Congenital anomalies

* Environmental factors:

- Low socioeconomic status

- Lack of access to prenatal care

- Exposure to environmental toxins (e.g., lead, mercury, pesticides)

- Living in a high-altitude area

* Inadequate or absence of prenatal care