Socio-economic determinants of low birth weight in Kenya: Logistic regression analysis
Abstract
Babies born with Low-birth weight are at increased risk for serious health problems which are
accompanied by disabilities and even death. Hence this study aims to determine socioeconomic
factors that lead to low birth weight of children in Kenya. Data used was from Kdhs
2003 and the significant effect of socio-economic determinants on low birth weight was
examined using logistic regression analysis data is categorical and continuous in nature, where
predictor variables being socio-economic determinants and birth weight being dependent
variable. Results indicate that out of ten socio-economic factors involved in the study, six
revealed some significant effects on the children with low birth weight, four determinants
namely , sex of the child, antenatal visit for pregnancy, antenatal care attendance and time
wanted pregnancy has no significant impact to the infant birth weight holding other factors
constant. The six major socio-economic determinants which can alter the weight at birth for
babies born in Kenya were Religion, Educational attainment, Age of household head, Smokes
nothing, Current marital status, and Size of child at birth. Therefore Socio-economic
determinants have a significant effect on Low birth weight which suggests a strong negative
associated with infant survival in Kenya independent of other risk factors. Children can be
ensured a healthy start in life if women start pregnancy healthy and well nourished, and go
through pregnancy and childbirth safely. Also expectant mothers should keenly focus on the
socio-economic determinants by avoiding some like smoking, acquire education so that they can
understand how to take care of themselves and not always to depend on the doctor's advice, give
enough time and prepare for the pregnancy
Sponsorhip
University of NairobiPublisher
School of mathematics