Low Birth Weight and Nutritional Risk Factors among Newborns in Fafan and Liban Zone, Somali Region, Ethiopia

Abdirahman Ahmed Hassan *

Department of Human Nutrition, Jigjiga University, Jigjiga, Ethiopia.

*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.


Abstract

Background: Birth weight is an important predictor of an infant's future health, and growth, It serves as a key indicator of various public health issues, including long-term maternal malnutrition and inadequate healthcare during pregnancy. In developing countries, a birth weight below 2,500 grams is a leading cause of infant and child mortality. While the determinants of low birth weight are not yet fully understood, this research is aimed to assess the prevalence low birth weight and the nutritional risk factors affecting newborns in the Fafan and Liban Zones of the Somali region in Ethiopia.

Methodology: Institution-based cross section study design was conducted among 191 newborns delivered from March to May,2021 in Sheikh Hassan Yabare Referral hospital and Dolo Ado primary hospital, Consecutively, simple random sampling was employed to select study participants. Data were collected by interview using semi-structured and pretested questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used for data description, and binary logistic regression was performed to explore the associations between independent and dependent variables.

Result: In this study, the prevalence of low birth weight was 25.1% percent. Iron folic acid supplementation during pregnancy[(AOR=0.23(0.11,0.50)],maternal under-nutrition (MUAC <22cm) [(AOR=3.17(1.22,8.25)] and Family Size ≥5 person[(AOR=2.74(1.13,6.62)] were found to be independent predictor of low birth weight.

Conclusion: Low birth weight is a critical public health challenge that demands urgent attention due to its connection to various risk factors. According to our findings, iron and folic acid supplementation during pregnancy, maternal undernutrition, and larger family sizes (≥5 people) significantly contribute to low birth weight. To effectively tackle this issue, we need to prioritize comprehensive family planning services, ensure increased access to antenatal care, and enhance household food security and dietary diversity. By implementing these measures, we can work towards healthier pregnancies and better outcomes for future generations.

Keywords: Birth weight, Fafan and liban Zone, Newborn, low birth weight, Somali region


How to Cite

Hassan, A. A. (2025). Low Birth Weight and Nutritional Risk Factors among Newborns in Fafan and Liban Zone, Somali Region, Ethiopia. Asian Journal of Food Research and Nutrition, 4(1), 58–66. https://doi.org/10.9734/ajfrn/2025/v4i1226

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