Clinicoepidemiological Profile and Predictors of Mortality in LBW Babies: A Hospital Based Observational Study

Introduction: Low birth weight has a significant impact on the survival of a newborn. Low birth weight babies are at risk for a number of serious clinical problems and as such contribute to overall neonatal mortality and morbidity. Aims: The aim was to study the clinicoepidemiological profile and predictors of mortality in low birth weight babies in resource limited settings. Materials and methods: This was a prospective observational study conducted from July 2013 to May 2015. The study group included neonates admitted in NICU having birth weight less than 2500 gms. Newborns with congenital or chromosomal anomalies were excluded from the study. Data was collected regarding various epidemiological and clinical parameters and entered as per a preset proforma. Results and inference: Total of 100 eligible LBW newborns were studied. Incidence of LBW admission was found to be 17.3%. There were 26 deaths among LBW neonates. Birth weight, gestational age, mechanical ventilation, shock on admission, NEC, sepsis, and CRIB score were found to have a statistically significant association with mortality.