Factors predisposing to low birth weight in Jimma Hospital south western Ethiopia.

BACKGROUND Low birth weight continues to remain a major public health problem in Ethiopia in contrast to what is observed in many developing countries. OBJECTIVES To assess some of the predisposing factors to low birth weight among deliveries in Jimma hospital. DESIGN Cross-sectional case referent study. SETTING Maternal and child health clinic and maternity ward of Jimma University Hospital, Ethiopia. SUBJECTS One hundred and forty seven mothers who gave birth to low birth weight (LBW) babies between June 1999 and July 2000 were identified. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Normal and low birth weight. RESULTS The incidence of LBW was found to be 11.02%. Mothers younger than 20 years and > or =35 years, short stature (< or =150 cm), late first antenatal visit and complications during pregnancy were significantly associated with LBW (p<0.001). However, parity showed a negative association with LBW. CONCLUSION Attention to nutritional education, early antenatal care interventions and strengthening of maternal and child health assists in combating LBW in the area.