Debra J. Jackson, BSN MPH DSC, Elize Batiste, MPH, and Kirstie Rendall-Mkosi, BSc(OT) MPH. School of Public Health, University of the Western Cape, PO Box 16239, Vlaeberg, Cape Town, 8018, South Africa, 27-21-465-2243, bessrfam@iafrica.com

The farming regions of the Western Cape Province in South Africa have high rates of low birthweight. Alcohol abuse and smoking are also major problems in these areas. The aim of this case-control study was to determine the epidemiology of low birthweight, with particular attention to lifestyle behaviours such as alcohol, smoking, and stress. Data collection was via structured postpartum interviews and review of antenatal and delivery records. Data was analysed in CDC EpiInfo 2002. Odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were the measures of association. The study found that term low birthweight (as a measure of intrauterine growth retardation) was almost 50% of the total low birthweight incidence. Maternal education and type of residence were associated with low birthweight. Multi-parity (OR 1.89; 95% CI 1.25-2.86), previous problem pregnancies (OR 1.92; 95% CI 1.18-3.13), attendance at antenatal care (OR 0.47; 95% CI 0.26-0.84), mean number of antenatal visits (Cases 4.7 vs Controls 6.1; p-value=0.00); mean maternal height (Cases 160cm vs Controls 162cm; p-value=0.01), and mean maternal weight at 1st antenatal visit (Cases 60kg vs Controls 70kg; p-value 0.00) were also associated. Smoking (OR 3.04; 95% CI 2.02-4.57) and alcohol (OR 2.15; 95% CI 1.37-3.38) were strong predictors and there appeared to be an interaction between these two factors that increased risk. There were high levels of stress in both groups, but these were not associated with low birthweight in this study. Implications for antenatal care in South Africa and comparison to US low birthweight occurrence will be discussed.

Learning Objectives:

• To understand the epidemiology of low birth weight, in particular lifestyle risk factors, in a rural farming region of South Africa.
• To discuss implications for antenatal care in South Africa.
• To compare low birth weight occurrence in US and South Africa.

Keywords: Low Birthweight, International MCH

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
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.