Low birthweight (LBW) infants constitute a major public health concern in developed and developing countries. LBW infants includes those that were born early (preterm births), those that were born with intrauterine growth restricted (IUGR), or a combination of both. IUGR as a result of chronic malnutrition is more prevalent in developing countries and usually shows more long-term consequences. IUGR infants as a result of acute foetal malnutrition predominate in developed countries and usually have more complications immediately after birth but lower long-term consequences. The WHO 2025 global target is to achieve a 30% reduction in LBW infants. Research should focus on: testing evidence-based interventions starting before pregnancy to improve women’s nutrition in order to stop the vicious circle of malnutrition; treating pregnancy associated conditions such as pre-eclampsia; providing adequate perinatal care and social support; and Identifying risk factors of spontaneous preterm birth, as most causes are unknown.
Antenatal corticosteroids trial in preterm births to increase neonatal survival in developing countries: study protocol
