Objective: To identify the risk factors for small for gestational age (SGA) babies.
Methods: The present study was a nested case control study which was carried out by two Medical Officers of Health areas (The field level administrative unit responsible for provision of preventive and promotive health services) in Colombo district. SGA babies were identified using 'weight for gestational age' curves developed for Sri Lankan babies. Newborns of 1,200 pregnant women, who were identified within the first 8 wk of amenorrhea and who delivered in selected hospitals were included in the study. Sample size was calculated as n=167 cases and 4 n=668 controls, with four controls for each case. A case was defined as a newborn whose birth weight was less than the 10th percentile of the weight for gestational age, the control being a newborn whose birth weight was between the 10th and the 90th percentile of the weight for gestational age.
Results: Multivariate analysis identified 7 significant risk factors as, number of live born children=0, inadequate weight gain during pregnancy according to initial BMI, maximum and minimum physical work, mother's pre-pregnant weight less than 38 kg, high level of stress at second trimester, presence of pregnancy induced hypertension (PIH) and inadequate support from husband.
Conclusion: The risk factors indicate the directions for planning intervention programs.