A case-control study of risk factors for low birth weight in the Western Cape : Winelands/West Coast region

Abstract

Birthweight is powerful predictor of infant growth and survival. Premature birth and intrauterine growth retardation of birthweight. Maternal environment is important underlying determinant of birthweight. Common lifestyle risk factors include maternal under-nutrition, smoking, alcohol and social factors and stress. The Winelands/West Coast region has high rates of low birthweight. In addition, alcohol abuse and smoking are major problems in this area. The aim of this quantitative case-control study was to determine the epidemiology of low birthweight, related to lifestyle behaviours in pregnant women, with particular attention to lifestyle factors such as alcohol, smoking, and stress-related factors.