Exploration of Factors Influencing Low Birth Weight Infants in Oklahoma

Abstract

This project analyzed the relationships between low birth weight infants (weighing less than 2500 grams) and characteristics of the mother and the birth. Oklahoma data for all live births in 2016 (n=52,592) was obtained from the CDC. Literature suggests several risk factors for low birth weight associated with the birth: less prenatal care, plurality (twin/triplet), males, early live birth order, and gestational age. Maternal risk factors include: young age, less education, race other than white, unmarried, smoking, pregnancy-associated or chronic hypertension, eclampsia, and diabetes. In addition, the study focused on comparing national natality statistics to those in the state of Oklahoma. Tables were used to summarize low birth weight for each of the dichotomous risk factors. Data was graphically summarized with regard to birth weight for age vs marital status, age vs race, race vs gender, and race vs education. Statistical tests included chi-square tests for significant differences in proportions and logistic regression modeling for predicting low birth weight.