Book Description

Abstract: This report describes a study of low birth weight ratios in the U.S. from 1950-1968. The study was conducted by the Maternal and Child Health Project with funding from the Maternal and Child Health Service of the U.S. Department of Health, Education, and Welfare. An introduction defines terms and describes data used throughout the report. Variations in trends in low birth weight ratios are examined by geographic area, state, and type of attendant. Correlates of low birth weight that are discussed include 1) color, sex, and plurality, 2) gestation, 3) birth order and maternal age, 4) legitimacy, 5) socioeconomic level, 6) maternal weight gain, 7) smoking, and 8) fetal growth. Although the basic causes of low birth weight are still not completely understood, this study was able to relate low birth weight to selected population characteristics and to clarify the level and extent of low birth weight in the U.S. and in separate states individually.