Factors Associated with Birth Weight among Newborns Delivered at Finote Selam Hospital, Amhara National Regional State, Ethiopia

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the major factors associated with birth weight in newborns delivered at Finote Selam Hospital, Amhara Region. For this purpose, quantitative research approach with cross-sectional design was used. Data were collected from 165 mothers delivered at Finote Selam Hospital from February 27 to March 21, 2020. To analyze the data, both descriptive and inferential statistical techniques were employed. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to identify the associated factors. The findings have shown that mothers who were unable to read and write, had informal education, and attended primary level of education with values of OR= 72.2 %, OR=4.166, and OR=11.424 respectively were more likely to have a low birth-weight neonates. Babies who were born <37 weeks were 1.523 times more likely to be low birth weight. Mothers who did not take iron and folic supplementation during pregnancy were 19.2% more likely to have a low birth weight babies. Mothers who did not experience pregnancy complications showed 0.187 times decreased delivered low birth weight. Mothers who were taking substances, or taking one to two times, and three times during pregnancy showed decreased chance of low delivered birth weight. On the contrary, mothers who were taking substances more than four times and above had a more likelihood to deliver low birth weighted babies. Overall, most of the variables under consideration had a paramount impact on newborns’ birth weight. The findings of the study imply that various stakeholders should discharge their responsibilities to alleviate the problem of low birth weight.