Low birthweight
Low birthweight
Low birthweight (pronunciation: loʊ bɜːθweɪt) is a term used in medicine to describe a newborn who weighs less than 2,500 grams (5.5 pounds) at birth. The condition is often associated with premature birth and can lead to a variety of health issues.
Etymology
The term "low birthweight" is derived from the English words "low," meaning small in amount, and "birthweight," which refers to the weight of a newborn at the time of birth.
Causes
Low birthweight can be caused by a variety of factors, including maternal health issues, genetic disorders, and environmental factors. Some of the most common causes include:
- Premature birth: Babies born before 37 weeks of gestation often weigh less than those born at full term.
- Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR): This occurs when a baby doesn't grow at a normal rate inside the womb, often due to problems with the placenta or maternal health issues.
- Multiple pregnancy: Twins, triplets, and other multiples are often born with low birthweight because they have to share nutrients in the womb.
- Maternal malnutrition: If the mother doesn't get enough nutrients during pregnancy, the baby may not grow properly.
Complications
Babies with low birthweight are at a higher risk of several health problems, including:
- Neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission: Many low birthweight babies need specialized care in a NICU.
- Infections: Low birthweight babies have underdeveloped immune systems, making them more susceptible to infections.
- Long-term health problems: These can include cognitive impairment, visual and hearing problems, and chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes.
Prevention
Preventing low birthweight often involves improving maternal health and nutrition, as well as providing appropriate prenatal care. This can include:
- Regular prenatal checkups: These can help detect and manage any problems that could affect the baby's growth.
- Healthy diet: Pregnant women should eat a balanced diet rich in nutrients to support their baby's growth.
- Avoiding harmful substances: This includes tobacco, alcohol, and illicit drugs, which can all harm a baby's growth.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Low birthweight
- Wikipedia's article - Low birthweight
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