Study of the Evolution of a Cohort Of Low-Birth-Weight Newborns at Neonatal Discharge: A Perspective on Health and Sustainable Development Goals

Abstract

Aims: This study aims to analyze the evolution of a cohort of low-birth-weight newborns at neonatal discharge, identifying key health outcomes and socio-economic factors. The goal is to inform strategies aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3), focusing on improving neonatal health, reducing child mortality, and promoting equitable access to healthcare. Method: A 12-month prospective cohort study was conducted from June 2020 to July 2021 at the neonatal and nutrition referral center of the Rabat children's hospital. The study included all newborns admitted with a birth weight under 2500g, regardless of the cause of hospitalization. Results: Among 200 low-birth-weight newborns, 42.5% showed extra-uterine growth retardation at discharge. Of these, 50.6% were full-term newborns and 36% were premature infants. Full-term newborns regained birth weight in an average of 5.96±4.07 days, with a median of 4 days. For premature infants, weight recovery averaged 11±8.09 days, with a median of 8 days. Conclusions: The study assessed the progress of low-birth-weight full-term and premature babies at discharge. Tailored nutritional management is crucial, requiring an adaptable strategy from the start and continued adjustments based on clinical progress. Of the cohort, 36.03% were hypotrophic premature infants, and 50.6% were full-term low-birth-weight babies. Enhancing neonatal care quality remains a key challenge, emphasizing the need for collaboration among healthcare professionals to ensure growth monitoring and meet the specific needs of this vulnerable group.