low birth weight

Low Birth Weight babies are the neonates weighing less than 2500g when weighed within 1 hour at birth. If born before 37 weeks of gestation, they are called as preterm, otherwise remaining one are small for gestational age due to intrauterine growth retardation. Most low birthweight babies are preterm. Low birthweight is a widely used indicator of newborn health, which could reflect the intrauterine growth and nutrition status. The association between low birthweight and a greatly elevated risk of infant mortality and other physical and neurologic impairment has been testified. Also, the WHO has taken low birthweight as an important cause which threatens the lives of neonates. Across the world, neonatal mortality is 20 times more likely for low birthweight babies compared to heavier babies. Low birthweight also stresses the family and healthcare financial systems.