Determinants of birth weight in Uganda, a potential for reduction of infant mortality rates.

Abstract

This report examines the determinants of birth-weight in Uganda using cross sectional data of the Demographic and Health Survey 2011. It identifies the main determinants in relation to the circumstances surrounding the time of the mother’s pregnancy. The report examines the hypothesis that birth-weight is at least partly influenced but not limited to mother’s age, smoking status, attendance of Ante-natal Care (ANC), birth order, education level and residence status. The study notes birth-weight differences, which are largely attributed to the mother’s characteristics. The findings point to the importance of strengthening the capacities of administrative data collection to better and accurately measure incidences of low birth-weight in Uganda. The findings further emphasize the significance of improving socio-economic characteristics of the mother to reduce low birth weight in the country.