LOW BIRTH WEIGHT DETERMINANTS PRESENT IN THE STATEMENT OF LIVE BIRTH

Abstract

The aim of this study was to identify the prevalence and the low birth weight (LBW) associated factors in Divinópolis, Brazil. Method: It is a cross-sectional study. 9,987 hospitalar birth records occurred between 2008 and 2011, were analysed. In univariate analysis, chi-square test and the odds ratio was used setting a significance level of 5%. To control for possible confounding factors in obtained associations, binary logistic regression model was used. Results: The LBW trend during studied period was stable, ranging between 8.9 and 9.2%. More than half of children were born preterm (62.0%) and through operative delivery (63.9%). Independent predictors were prematurity, female, performing six or fewer prenatal visits, single mothers. Conclusion: The knowledge of the determinants of LBW allows health professionals to organize health care network in proportion to the need for those most vulnerable and in risk of health problems.