Introduction: Ninety-two percent of Low Birth Weight(LBW) infants are born in developing countries, 70% in Asia and 22% in Africa. WHO and UNICEF estimate LBW in Kenya as 11% and 6%by 2009 Kenya Demographic Health Survey. The same survey estimated LBW to be 5.5% in Central Province, Kenya. Data in Olkalou hospital indicated that prevalence of LBW was high. However, factors giving rise to the problem remained unknown.
Methods: A cross-sectional analytic study was therefore conducted to estimate prevalence and distribution and determine the factors associated with LBW in the hospital. LBW was defined as birth of a live infant less than 2500 g. We collected data using a semi-structured questionnaire and review of health records. A total 327 women were randomly selected from 500 mothers. Data was managed using Epi Info 3.3.2.
Results: The prevalence of LBW was 12.3% (n = 40). The mean age of mothers was 25.6 ± 6.2 years. Mean birth weight was 2928 ± 533 grams. There were 51.1% (n = 165) male neonates and 48.9% (n = 158) females. The following factors were significantly associated with LBW:LBW delivery in a previous birth (OR = 4.7, 95%C.I. = 1.53-14.24), premature rapture of membranes (OR = 2.95, 95%C.I. = 1.14-7.62), premature births (OR=3.65, 95%C.I. = 1.31-10.38), and female newborn (OR = 2.32, 95%C.I. = 1.15-4.70). On logistic regression only delivery of LBW baby in a previous birth (OR = 5.07, 95%C.I. = 1.59-16.21) and female infant (OR = 3.37, 95%C.I. = 1.14-10.00)were independently associated with LBW.
Conclusion: Prevalence of LBW in the hospital was higher than national estimates. Female infant and LBW baby in a previous birth are independent factors. Local prevention efforts are necessary to mitigate the problem. Population-based study is necessary to provide accurate estimates in the area.
Keywords: Prevalence; factors; low birth weight.