摘要
Objective:Low birth weight is a global concern in both developed and developing countries.This problem represents a high proportion in Africa and Asia.In Rwanda,low birth weight is also conspicuous.The main objective of this study is to assess the prevalence of low birth weight and associated factors in Gakoma District Hospital.Methods:A cross-sectional research design adopted with quantitative approaches.The study population was 182 mothers delivered in the Gakoma District hospital during July 2019.The researcher used a semi-structured questionnaire known as a structured interview tool.This research tool contained closed-ended questionnaires related to the study objectives and checked the children’s card for showing the birth weights.Results:The results found that the prevalence of low birth weight was 12.8%in Gakoma District Hospital.The low birth weight in neonates’were associated with partner’s employment(adjusted odds ratio(AOR)=39.5,95%confidence interval CI:4.182–373.104),mothers’previous weight status(AOR=14.5,95%CI:4.182–373.104),having malaria during pregnancy(AOR=113.75,95%CI:22.873–565.686),having tuberculosis during pregnancy(AOR=12.346,95%CI:1.885–80.872),suffering from chronic diseases(AOR=20.357,95%CI:5.757–71.987).On the other hand,alcohol consumption during pregnancy(AOR=0.29,95%CI:(0.007–0.115))had preventive effect on low birth weight.Conclusion:Low birth weight babies are associated with partners’employment and previous baby birth weight though other socio-demographic factors are no associated.Low birth weight babies is associated with the following health status as suffering from malaria,tuberculosis during pregnancy and chronic diseases.
