The prevalence of low birthweight (LBW) and its possible risk factors in Ahvaz, Iran, were determined in 10 health centres and 3 main hospitals in the city from 876 randomly selected mother-infant files. The variables included maternal pre-pregnancy and pre-labour weight, infant weight, maternal haemoglobin level, pregnancy history, and socio-economic status. The rate of LBW was 7.3%. LBW was significantly related to pre-pregnancy maternal weight, weight gain during pregnancy, maternal haemoglobin level, and mother's literacy (p < .05). Mothers given iron supplements starting at four months of pregnancy had elevated haemoglobin levels (p < .0001). Evidence is provided that educating young mothers can reduce the rate of LBW.
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