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Measuring birth outcomes in New York State: A multidimensional approach at the county level
Birth outcomes are traditionally measured by low birth weight (LBW), identified as <2500 grams at birth. Most analyses at the state and federal levels are based on LBW, assuming that recommendations to tackle LBW problems would also be valid for other similar measures of poorer birth outcomes; very low birth weight (VLBW) identified as <1500 grams, and extremely low birth weight (ELBW) identified as <1000 grams at birth. The purpose of this study is to assess predictors of LBW, VLBW, and ELBW in NY State counties and provide unique policy recommendations to tackle each category of poorer birth outcomes.
Methods: To this end, a data set at the county level for NY State was built and analyzed. Using stepwise regression techniques, separate analyses were conducted to identify predictors for LBW, VLBW, and ELBW.
Results: Initial findings indicate that percent out-of-wedlock births and teen pregnancy rates per 1000 females were significant predictors for LBW and percent out-of-wedlock births and percent poverty for all ages were significant predictors for VLBW. ELBW was significantly correlated with percent poverty for all ages.
Conclusion: Using distinct findings such as these, policy planners are better able to recommend policies and programs relevant for the developmental needs of this vulnerable population.
Learning Areas:
Public health or related nursingPublic health or related public policy
Learning Objectives:
Identify predictors that contribute to poorer birth outcomes for NY counties.
Explain multidimensional approaches to measuring lower birth weight that identify unique differences at the county level.
Discuss differing policy and program recommendations for counties in NY.
Keyword(s): Birth Outcomes, Vulnerable Populations
Qualified on the content I am responsible for because: I have worked in a neonatal intensive care setting and learned the importance of programs that meet developmental needs of premature and low birth weight neonates. I conducted research on birth outcomes for my doctoral dissertation and have continued to research poorer birth outcomes. Among my research interests are how policy and program decisions can impact birth outcomes at the county level.
Any relevant financial relationships? No
I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.