A Comparative study on growth pattern of Low Birth Weight and Normal Birth Weight neonates

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Low birth weight (LBW, birth weight<2500g) is a significant health problem in children all around the
world. There is a direct relationship between low birth weight and infant mortality rate. One of the most important
measures to prevent childhood morbidity is growth monitoring. The present study was planned to compare the growth
rate of LBW neonates with those weighing 2500g and more at birth (normal birth weight (NBW)) during the first two
years of life.
METHODS: This was a retrospective cohort study, which included 218 two years old infants (109 LBW, 109 NBW).
Data gathering tool was a questionnaire. Data were analyzed by descriptive analytic statistical methods (the t- test and
the χ2 test).
RESULTS: Our findings revealed that there was a significant difference between the mean values of child weight, height
and head circumference from birth until 2 years of age between the two groups (the LBW group had lower values than
the NBW group). Height by age, weight by age and weight by height indices also had significant difference between the
two groups until 2 years of age. Growth curves in LBW group were upslope until 2 years old. Moreover, the weight
percentile of the LBW children at 2 years of age was deeper than the NBW group.
DISCUSSION: In the present study, comparison of growth parameters until 2 chart years of age and growth of both
groups showed a better growth velocity in the LBW group. The LBW growth curve moved upslope and was more compatible
with standard percentiles throughout the growth curve. However, growth of the NBW group was not fine and
more investigation is needed in this field.
KEY WORDS: Growth, low birth weight, normal birth weight, neonate