Randomized controlled trials (RCT) of food supplementation as well as RCTs of social support interventions have not demonstrated any effect on low birthweight (LBW). An intervention that combines a food supplement with social support and linkages with community resources might however be effective to reduce the LBW rate of low SES women. For this study, 1329 low SES women were randomized at their 18th week of pregnancy to a control group receiving a food supplement or to an experimental group receiving both a food supplement and home visits every other week by a health professional. Hospital charts provided birthweight and medical data and the mothers were interviewed at the 4th week postpartum. There are complete data for 85% of the mothers. Preliminary results do not show any difference in the LBW rate between the two groups but mothers who received the home visits had a lower mean depressive score on the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant will be able to : - list the main determinants of low birthweight among low SES women; -discuss the main hypothesis for the failure of social support programs to prevent low birthweight; -discuss the importance of reducing the mean postpartum depression score of low SES women
Keywords: Low Birthweight, Low-Income
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: none
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.