MATERNAL FACTORS INFLUENCING THE OCCURRENCE OF LOW-BIRTH-WEIGHT IN NORTHERN VIETNAM

The relationship between the birthweight of newborn infants and their mothers' health characteristics as well as socio-economic status were studied in 1474 consecutive deliveries from eight areas in the delta r egion of north Vietnam. The results showed that the proportion of low birthweight (LBW) infants varied from 7.9% to 12.5%. Body mass index ( BMI) of the mothers, good nutrition during pregnancy and maternity lea ve before delivery were negatively associated with the occurrence of L BW. The association between chronic energy deficiency (low BMI) and LB W was seen only among the farming women. Measures should be taken to r educe the workload and to supply sufficient food for pregnant women, a nd special priority should be given to rural areas.