IMPACT OF MATERNAL ANEMIA AND PREECLAMPSIA ON BIRTH WEIGHT OF BABY – A PROSPECTIVE COHORT STUDY

Maternal anemia and preeclampsia are significant health concerns in pregnancy, particularly in developing countries. These conditions are associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes, including low birth weight. Understanding their impact on neonatal birth weight is crucial for improving prenatal care and outcomes. This prospective cohort study was conducted at Government Sivagangai Medical College and Hospital, India, involving 60 pregnant women. This study was aimed at assessing the effect of pre-eclampsia and maternal anemia on newborn birth weight. Participants were diagnosed with preeclampsia (blood pressure > 140/90 mmHg) and/or anemia (hemoglobin< 10 g/dL). Data collection included interviews, blood samples, vital examinations, and birth registration documents. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, comparative analysis, regression analysis, and chi-square tests. Preeclamptic mothers had slightly higher average baby weights (2.36 kg) than mothers without preeclampsia (2.35 kg), with a p-value of 0.85, indicating no statistically significant difference. The average hemoglobin levels of mothers with preeclampsia (8.40 g/dL) were higher than those without preeclampsia (8.30 g/dL), with a p-value of 0.62, showing no significant impact on baby weight. Babies born to mothers with hemoglobin levels below 8.0 g/dL had the lowest average weight (2.25 kg), while those with levels between 8.0 and 9.0 g/dL weighed slightly more (2.33 kg). The highest average weights (2.52 kg) were observed in babies born to mothers with hemoglobin levels of 9.0 g/dL or above. Confidence intervals for average baby weights at different hemoglobin levels were as follows: below 8.0 g/dL: 2.25 kg (95% CI: 2.13 – 2.37); between 8.0–9.0 g/dL: 2.33 kg (95% CI: 2.22 – 2.44); above 9.0 g/dL: 2.52 kg (95% CI: 2.41 – 2.63). The study underscores the importance of routine screening and early intervention for anemia and pre-eclampsia in prenatal care. Adequate maternal hemoglobin levels are associated with better pregnancy outcomes, highlighting the need for targeted healthcare policies and clinical practices to address these maternal health concerns.