Determinants of low birth weight among newborns: maternal and health-related factors at China Uganda Friendship Hospital, Naguru. A cross-sectional study.

Priscillar  Mukopuuli  K; Hasifa  Nansereko; Jane Frank  Nalubega; Immaculate Prosperia   Naggulu

doi:10.51168/sjhrafrica.v6i9.1932

Authors

Priscillar Mukopuuli K Mildmay Institute of Health Sciences.
Hasifa Nansereko Mildmay Institute of Health Sciences.
Jane Frank Nalubega Mildmay Institute of Health Sciences.
Ms. Immaculate Naggulu Prosperia Mildmay Institute of Health Sciences.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51168/sjhrafrica.v6i9.1932

Keywords:

Low Birth Weight, Newborns, Maternal, China-Uganda Friendship Hospital, Naguru

Abstract

Background:

In Uganda, the prevalence of LBW is estimated at 33.5% suggesting that approximately 4 in 10 infants are born with a low birth weight. The purpose of this study was to assess the determinants of low birth weight among newborns, focusing on maternal and health-related factors at China-Uganda Friendship Hospital, Naguru, Kampala District.

Methodology:

A descriptive cross-sectional study design employing a quantitative method was used. In three days, 32 mothers were sampled using a simple random sampling technique and a structured questionnaire. The data were then analyzed using the Office (2010) programs and presented in the form of tables, graphs, and pie charts.

Results:

Out of the 32 respondents, nearly half (46.9%) were aged 20 to 34 years, and more than half (56.3%) had attained secondary school education. Concerning maternal-related factors, the majority (71.9%) visited antenatal care fewer than four times, and (62.5%) used drug substances during pregnancy. More than half (56.3%) found care to be a bit expensive at the health facilities, (62.5%) said the facility was very far and tiresome to reach, and most (71.9%) started ANC between 4 and 6 months. Additionally, more than half (56.3%) of participants reported that health workers were sometimes kind.

Conclusion:

Several maternal factors, including experience of illnesses during pregnancy, inadequate ANC attendance, substance use, and prolonged standing while pregnant, were associated with the occurrence of low birth weight.

Recommendation:

There is a need to strengthen community sensitization and health education campaigns on the importance of early and regular antenatal care, proper nutrition, and family planning to prevent unplanned pregnancies and reduce maternal complications associated with low birth weight.

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