Factors Affecting Low Birth Weight

Abstract

Low Birt Weight (LBW) is major cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality worldwild, especially in developing countries. Factors affecting the incidence of LBW include maternal age, parity (number of children ever born), Antenatal Care (ANC) or pregnancy examination, and maternal nutritional status. Fetal condition factors include genetic factors, congenital abnormalities inte fetus, non-optimal fetal nutrition, and factors originating from the the pregnant mother, including maternal nutrition, maternal physical condition, maternal health status (hipertension, heart deisiases, etc). This study aims to identify the factors associated with the incidence of LBW through a literature review of 7 recent studies in the last five years. The method used was a systematic literature search the PubMed, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect database with the keyword “Bayi Berat lahir Rendah” (Low Birth Weight,” factor resiko BBLR” (LBW risk factors), “BBLR dalam 5 tahun terakhir” (LBW in the last five years). The results show that dominant factors include maternal age, gestational age, parity, pregnancy spacing, pregnancy complications, history of illness, nutritional status, preeclamsia, and gemelli (twins). Thus, a multidisciplinary approach is needed to reduce the prevalence of LBW through nutritional improvements, pregnancy monitoring, and increased health education.