Short Maternal Stature Increases Risk of Small-for-Gestational-Age and Preterm Births in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: Individual Participant Data Meta-Analysis and Population Attributable Fraction

To Study the Correlation of Maternal Serum Vitamin D Levels and Infant Serum Vitamin D Levels With Infant Birth Weight: A Single-Centre Experience From the Bundelkhand Region, India

BACKGROUND

Vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy can have severe effects on both the mother and the newborn child. The main aim of this study was to assess the impact of maternal vitamin D levels on the birth weight of the newborn by analysing the vitamin D levels in pregnant women at full term and their newborn.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The cross-sectional, hospital-based study was conducted with 150 consecutive women in labour presenting with a singleton term pregnancy at a large tertiary centre in the Bundelkhand region, India. Maternal and infant blood samples were obtained at the time of delivery. Umbilical cord blood was collected from infants, while maternal venous blood was drawn simultaneously. All relevant data were gathered, including the assessment of 25-hydroxy vitamin D3 levels in both mother and infant. The birth weight of the infant was measured, and statistical analysis was performed to find an association between maternal vitamin D level to birth weight and vitamin D level of the infant.

RESULT

Most pregnant women had low vitamin D levels in this study. The results revealed a significant positive correlation between maternal serum vitamin D levels and infant birth weight (p < 0.001), suggesting that lower maternal vitamin D levels were associated with low birth weight in infants. Additionally, infant serum vitamin D levels showed a positive correlation with maternal vitamin D levels (p < 0.001), indicating that higher maternal vitamin D levels tend to have infants with higher vitamin D levels at birth.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest a potential correlation of maternal vitamin D status to birth weight and vitamin D level of newborns, and further research is needed to confirm and better understand this relationship. Additionally, other factors such as maternal nutrition, genetics, lifestyle factors, and environmental influences may contribute to birth weight outcomes.

Double Burden of Malnutrition and Its Associated Factors in Urbanized Indigenous Peoples (Orang Asli) of Peninsular Malaysia

Double burden of malnutrition (DBM) is a global public health concern. This study determined the prevalence of DBM and its associated factors among 451 indigenous households in an urbanized state of Malaysia. Mothers and children were measured for weight and height/length. Mothers were interviewed for socio-demographics and diets of mothers and children. Prevalence of DBM (overweight/obese mother and underweight/stunted child) was 28.8%. Food insecurity, maternal height (<150 cm) and energy intake (>recommendation), child's age (≥24 months) and energy intake ( Collapse

Key Words

• Double burden of malnutrition
• indigenous peoples
• maternal height, food insecurity, energy intake

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MESH Headings

• Humans
• Malaysia/epidemiology
• Female
• Malnutrition/epidemiology
• Indigenous Peoples
• Child, Preschool
• Male
• Adult
• Prevalence
• Infant
• Food Insecurity
• Urban Population
• Urbanization
• Thinness/ethnology
• Thinness/epidemiology
• Young Adult
• Energy Intake
• Mothers
• Diet
• Adolescent
• Cross-Sectional Studies
• Overweight/ethnology
• Overweight/epidemiology
• Child
• Obesity/ethnology

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Grants Collapse

Affiliation(s)

Zalilah Mohd Shariff Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Malaysia
Rozalina Ismail Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Malaysia
Nurul Husna Mohd Shukri Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Malaysia

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Inadequate linear catch-up growth in children born small for gestational age: Influencing factors and underlying mechanisms

A minority of children born small for gestational age (SGA) may experience catch-up growth failure and remain short in adulthood. However, the underlying causes and mechanisms of this phenomenon are not yet fully comprehended. We reviewed the present state of research concerning the growth hormone-insulin-like growth factor axis and growth plate in SGA children who fail to achieve catch-up growth. Additionally, we explored the factors influencing catch-up growth in SGA children and potential molecular mechanisms involved. Furthermore, we considered the potential benefits of supplementary nutrition, specific dietary patterns, probiotics and drug therapy in facilitating catch-up growth.

Nutrition, Other Environmental Influences, and Genetics in the Determination of Human Stature

Linear growth during three distinct stages of life determines attained stature in adulthood: namely, in utero, early postnatal life, and puberty and the adolescent period. Individual host factors, genetics, and the environment, including nutrition, influence attained human stature. Each period of physical growth has its specific biological and environmental considerations. Recent epidemiologic investigations reveal a strong influence of prenatal factors on linear size at birth that in turn influence the postnatal growth trajectory. Although average population height changes have been documented in high-income regions, stature as a complex human trait is not well understood or easily modified. This review summarizes the biology of linear growth and its major drivers, including nutrition from a life-course perspective, the genetics of programmed growth patterns or height, and gene-environment interactions that determine human stature in toto over the life span. Implications for public health interventions and knowledge gaps are discussed.

Maternal selenium deficiency was positively associated with the risk of selenium deficiency in children aged 6-59 months in rural Zimbabwe

There is growing evidence showing the existence of selenium (Se) deficiency among women and children in sub-Saharan Africa. Unfortunately, the key drivers of Se deficiency are not clearly understood. This study assessed the determinants of Se deficiency among children aged 6-59 months and Women of Reproductive Age (WRA), in Zimbabwe. This cross-sectional biomarker study was conducted in selected districts in rural Zimbabwe (Murewa, Shamva, and Mutasa). Children aged 6-59 months (n = 683) and WRA (n = 683), were selected using a systematic random sampling approach. Venous blood samples were collected, processed, and stored according to World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. Plasma selenium concentration was measured using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Anthropometric indices were assessed and classified based on WHO standards. Demographic characteristics were adapted from the Zimbabwe Demographic Health Survey standard questionnaire. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that children whose mothers were Se deficient were 4 times more likely to be Se deficient compared to those whose mothers were Se adequate (OR = 4.25; 95% CI; 1.55-11.67; p = 0.005). Girl children were 3 times more likely to be Se deficient compared to boys (OR = 2.84; 95% CI; 1.08-7.51; p = 0.035). Women producing maize for consumption were 0.5 times more likely to be Se deficient than non-producers (OR = 0.47; 95% CI; 0.25-0.90; p = 0.022). The risk of Se depletion in children was amplified by maternal deficiency. Therefore, initiation of maternal multiple micronutrient supplementation from preconception through lactation is beneficial to both children and women.

The association between serum uric acid and low birth weight in advance maternal age women with hypertension: An observational study

In China, the implementation of 2-child policy since 2015 entitles increasing number of advanced maternal age. Recently, Chinese hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) in advanced-age women have attracted significant clinical and epidemiological research interest. Previous studies have shown an association between serum uric acid (SUA) levels and low birth weight (LBW) in children. Several studies have reported that advanced maternal age is a risk factor for many complications in pregnancy, including LBW. However, it remains unclear whether SUA affects LBW risk in advanced maternal age mothers with hypertensive diseases. The study was observational in nature. A total of 692 advanced maternal age with hypertension were enrolled in our study. A variety of demographic and vital sign data, laboratory test results, and pregnancy outcomes were collected. Children born with LBW served as the clinical endpoint. On admission, blood samples were taken, and women with advanced maternal ages were divided into 2 groups based on their SUA levels. In order to investigate the association between SUA and LBW, a logistic regression model was used. E-value analysis was used to determine the residual unmeasured confounding. The mean SUA level was increased in advanced maternal age patients with HDP. Of 692 newborns, 244 (35.26%) have LBW. With possible confounders adjusted, high SUA levels were independent risk factors for LBW (odds ratio [OR]2.88, 95% confidence intervals [CI]1.22-6.81), multivariate logistic regression analysis using SUA as a continuous variable recapitulated the pattern (OR 1.01, 95% CI 1.00-1.01). In addition, SUA levels in women with advanced maternal age and hypertension were linearly related to LBW incidence. According to this study, SUA levels in patients with advanced maternal age and HDP are associated with LBW incidence.

Targeting strategies for balanced energy and protein (BEP) supplementation in pregnancy: study protocol for the TARGET-BEP cluster-randomized controlled trial in rural Bangladesh

BACKGROUND

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends balanced energy and protein (BEP) supplementation be provided to all pregnant women living in undernourished populations, usually defined as having a prevalence > 20% of underweight women, to reduce the risk of stillbirths and small-for-gestational-age neonates. Few geographies meet this threshold, however, and a large proportion of undernourished women and those with inadequate gestational weight gain could miss benefiting from BEP. This study compares the effectiveness of individual targeting approaches for supplementation with micronutrient-fortified BEP vs. multiple micronutrient supplements (MMS) alone as control in pregnancy in improving birth outcomes.

METHODS

The TARGET-BEP study is a four-arm, cluster-randomized controlled trial conducted in rural northwestern Bangladesh. Eligible participants are married women aged 15-35 years old identified early in pregnancy using a community-wide, monthly, urine-test-based pregnancy detection system. Beginning at 12-14 weeks of gestation, women in the study area comprising 240 predefined sectors are randomly assigned to one of four intervention arms, with sector serving as the unit of randomization. The interventions involving daily supplementation through end of pregnancy are as follows: (1) MMS (control); (2) BEP; (3) targeted BEP for those with pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) < 18.5 kg/m2 and MMS for others; (4) targeted BEP for those with pre-pregnancy BMI < 18.5 kg/m2, MMS for others, and women with inadequate gestational weight gain switched from MMS to BEP until the end of pregnancy. Primary outcomes include birth weight, low birth weight (< 2500 g), and small for gestational age, defined using the 10th percentile of the INTERGROWTH-21st reference, for live-born infants measured within 72 h of birth. Project-hired local female staff visit pregnant women monthly to deliver the assigned supplements, monitor adherence biweekly, and assess weight regularly during pregnancy. Trained data collectors conduct pregnancy outcome assessment and measure newborn anthropometry in the facility or home depending on the place of birth.

DISCUSSION

This study will assess the effectiveness of targeted balanced energy and protein supplementation to improve birth outcomes among pregnant women in rural Bangladesh and similar settings.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05576207. Registered on October 5th, 2022.

A biosocial analysis of perinatal and late neonatal mortality among Indigenous Maya Kaqchikel communities in Tecpán, Guatemala: a mixed-methods study

INTRODUCTION

Neonatal mortality is a global public health challenge. Guatemala has the fifth highest neonatal mortality rate in Latin America, and Indigenous communities are particularly impacted. This study aims to understand factors driving neonatal mortality rates among Maya Kaqchikel communities.

METHODS

We used sequential explanatory mixed methods. The quantitative phase was a secondary analysis of 2014-2016 data from the Global Maternal and Newborn Health Registry from Chimaltenango, Guatemala. Multivariate logistic regression models identified factors associated with perinatal and late neonatal mortality. A number of 33 in-depth interviews were conducted with mothers, traditional Maya midwives and local healthcare professionals to explain quantitative findings.

RESULTS

Of 33 759 observations, 351 were lost to follow-up. There were 32 559 live births, 670 stillbirths (20/1000 births), 1265 (38/1000 births) perinatal deaths and 409 (12/1000 live births) late neonatal deaths. Factors identified to have statistically significant associations with a higher risk of perinatal or late neonatal mortality include lack of maternal education, maternal height <140 cm, maternal age under 20 or above 35, attending less than four antenatal visits, delivering without a skilled attendant, delivering at a health facility, preterm birth, congenital anomalies and presence of other obstetrical complications. Qualitative participants linked severe mental and emotional distress and inadequate maternal nutrition to heightened neonatal vulnerability. They also highlighted that mistrust in the healthcare system-fueled by language barriers and healthcare workers' use of coercive authority-delayed hospital presentations. They provided examples of cooperative relationships between traditional midwives and healthcare staff that resulted in positive outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Structural social forces influence neonatal vulnerability in rural Guatemala. When coupled with healthcare system shortcomings, these forces increase mistrust and mortality. Collaborative relationships among healthcare staff, traditional midwives and families may disrupt this cycle.

Perinatal inflammation, fetal growth restriction, and long-term neurodevelopmental impairment in Bangladesh

BACKGROUND

There are limited data on the impact of perinatal inflammation on child neurodevelopment in low-middle income countries and among growth-restricted infants.

METHODS

Population-based, prospective birth cohort study of 288 infants from July 2016-March 2017 in Sylhet, Bangladesh. Umbilical cord blood was analyzed for interleukin(IL)-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and C-reactive protein(CRP). Child neurodevelopment was assessed at 24 months with Bayley-III Scales of Infant Development. We determined associations between cord blood inflammation and neurodevelopmental outcomes, controlling for potential confounders.

RESULTS

248/288 (86%) live born infants were followed until 24 months, among whom 8.9% were preterm and 45.0% small-for-gestational-age(SGA) at birth. Among all infants, elevated concentrations (>75%) of CRP and IL-6 at birth were associated with increased odds of fine motor delay at 24 months; elevated CRP was also associated with lower receptive communication z-scores. Among SGA infants, elevated IL-1α was associated with cognitive delay, IL-8 with language delay, CRP with lower receptive communication z-scores, and IL-1β with lower expressive communication and motor z-scores.

CONCLUSIONS

In rural Bangladesh, perinatal inflammation was associated with impaired neurodevelopment at 24 months. The associations were strongest among SGA infants and noted across several biomarkers and domains, supporting the neurobiological role of inflammation in adverse fetal development, particularly in the setting of fetal growth restriction.

IMPACT

Cord blood inflammation was associated with fine motor and language delays at 24 months of age in a community-based cohort in rural Bangladesh. 23.4 million infants are born small-for-gestational-age (SGA) globally each year. Among SGA infants, the associations between cord blood inflammation and adverse outcomes were strong and consistent across several biomarkers and neurodevelopmental domains (cognitive, motor, language), supporting the neurobiological impact of inflammation prominent in growth-restricted infants. Prenatal interventions to prevent intrauterine growth restriction are needed in low- and middle-income countries and may also result in long-term benefits on child development.

Assessing the relationship of maternal short stature with coexisting forms of malnutrition among neonates, infants, and young children of Pakistan

Evidence from previous studies suggests a strong association between pediatric undernutrition and maternal stature. However, there's a scarcity of evidence regarding the relationship between maternal stature and pediatric coexisting forms of malnutrition (CFM). This study examined the prevalence and trends of CFM at the individual, household, and community levels, using data from the Demographic & Health Surveys (DHS) of Pakistan. Furthermore, this study assessed the association between pediatric CFM and short maternal stature while adjusting for multiple covariates. A panel cross-sectional analysis was conducted using data from the 2012-2013 and 2017-2018 Pakistan Demographic & Health Survey (PDHS). We included data from 6194 mother-child dyads aged 15-49 years and 0-59 months, respectively, while excluding data from pregnant mothers and dyads with incomplete anthropometric variables and anthropometric outliers. Across the two survey periods, our findings reveal a significant decline in pediatric malnutrition, including CFM, alongside a concurrent increase in maternal overweight/obesity. Three out of four households had either a malnourished mother, and/or a malnourished child, and/or both. Our study demonstrates that short maternal stature increased the odds of various forms of pediatric undernutrition by two-to-threefolds (p < .041), but we did not find an association with wasting, overweight/obesity, and nutritional paradox. This underscores the heightened vulnerability of children born to short-stature mothers to various forms of pediatric undernutrition. Addressing the high prevalence of pediatric undernutrition among children of short-stature mothers necessitates a comprehensive approach that considers an individual's nutritional status throughout their entire life cycle.

The interlink between chrono-nutrition and stunting: current insights and future perspectives

Stunting is the one factor that is responsible for the irretrievable damage to children's mental and physical health. Stunting imitates chronic undernutrition throughout the most extreme critical stages of growth and development of a child in their early life, and due to that stunted child does not completely develop and are too short for their age. Stunting is mainly linked with brain underdevelopment, along with lifelong damaging consequences, comprising weakened mental and learning capacity, deprived performance in school during childhood, and enhanced risks of nutrition linked to chronic long-lasting ailments, such as diabetes, hypertension, diabesity, and obesity in the future. In this review, the authors mainly summarize the latest studies related to chronic nutrition and how it is related to stunting. Optimal nutrition, particularly during pregnancy and the first 24 months of a child's life, is crucial in preventing stunting. Circadian rhythms play a significant role in maternal and fetal health, affecting outcomes such as premature birth and stunting. Maintaining a balanced diet, avoiding late-night carbohydrate-heavy meals during pregnancy, and promoting breastfeeding align with the body's biological clock, which can benefit newborns in various ways. Providing dedicated spaces for breastfeeding in public places is important to support infant health.

The association of maternal serum uric acid with the risk of small for gestational age newborn: a retrospective cohort study

PROBLEM

Prior results on the association between serum uric acid (UA) levels in the early trimester and the risk of small for gestational age (SGA) remain unclear. This study evaluated the association of maternal first-, second-, and third-trimester UA levels with the risk of SGA infants.

METHOD OF STUDY

A total of 23, 194 singleton mothers from the International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital between January 2014 and January 2017 were included. Maternal UA levels were measured at 12.1 ± 1.08th (UA1) and 32.2 ± 1.03th (UA2) gestational weeks. △UA was calculated as the difference between UA2 and UA1. Logistic regression and restricted cubic spline (RCS) were performed to evaluate the association between maternal UA and △UA during pregnancy and SGA. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was employed to assess the serum uric acid prediction value.

RESULTS

Women in the higher quartiles of UA1 had a significantly higher risk of SGA. A clear increased risk for SGA was observed with higher quartiles for UA2 (p for trend <0.05). An approximately "J-shaped" relationship was observed between UA2 and △UA, and the risk of SGA was observed. When compared with those with a lower level of UA in the first trimester, those with a higher level of UA1, the more increase in the later UA levels were associated with a higher risk of SGA [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.67, 95% CI:1.37-2.05]. The ROC curve areas were 0.525 for UA1, 0.582 for UA2 and 0.576 for △UA.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings suggested that non-preeclamptic and non-hypertensive women who experienced early pregnancy with high UA levels had an elevated risk of SGA. Moreover, a high maternal UA level in the earlier trimester may be an early predictor of SGA.

Supplementation with fortified balanced energy-protein during pregnancy and lactation and its effects on birth outcomes and infant growth in southern Nepal: protocol of a 2×2 factorial randomised trial

INTRODUCTION

Many women in low and middle-income countries enter pregnancy with low nutritional reserves with increased risk of fetal growth restriction and poor birth outcomes, including small-for-gestational-age (SGA) and preterm birth. Balanced energy-protein (BEP) supplements have shown reductions in risk of stillbirth and SGA, yet variations in intervention format and composition and limited evidence on the impact of BEP during lactation on growth outcomes warrant further study. This paper describes the protocol of the Maternal Infant Nutrition Trial (MINT) Study, which aims to evaluate the impact of a fortified BEP supplement during pregnancy and lactation on birth outcomes and infant growth in rural Nepal.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

MINT is a 2×2 factorial, household randomised, unblinded, efficacy trial conducted in a subarea of Sarlahi District, Nepal. The study area covers six rural municipalities with about 27 000 households and a population of approximately 100 000. Married women (15-30 years) who become pregnant are eligible for participation in the trial and are randomly assigned at enrolment to supplementation with fortified BEP or not and at birth to fortified BEP supplementation or not until 6 months post partum. The primary pregnancy outcome is incidence of SGA, using the INTERGROWTH-21st standard, among live born infants with birth weight measured within 72 hours of delivery. The primary infant growth outcome is mean length-for-age z-score at 6 months using the WHO international growth reference.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The study was approved by the Institutional Review Board (IRB) at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, USA (IRB00009714), the Committee on Human Research IRB at The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA (081739), and the Ethical Review Board of the Nepal Health Research Council, Kathmandu, Nepal (174/2018).

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT03668977.

Preliminary Study: The Effectiveness of Nutrition Education Intervention Targeting Short-Statured Pregnant Women to Prevent Gestational Stunting

A short mother with a height < 150 cm is likely to give birth to a short baby with a body length < 48 cm so that later this short baby will become stunted. The success rate of stunting malnutrition prevention and control with specific methods is 30% and the success rate with sensitive methods is 70%. The size at risk for short pregnant women is equal to 30.5%. A major effort to improve the health status of short pregnant women and prevent stunting is to empower short pregnant women with the help of health professionals. This study aimed to analyze the effectiveness of providing nutrition education to pregnant women who have short stature to prevent gestational stunting. This study used a quantitative approach with a quasi-experimental design in the intervention group and the control group. Research results showed that there are differences in the knowledge, attitudes, and actions of pregnant women about prenatal care services before and after the intervention, as well as knowledge of pregnant women about nutrition before and after intervention. The support of the cadres had a great influence on the intervention group compared with the control group, which received only one module. Pregnant women's knowledge of nutritional diets and pregnant women's knowledge of antenatal care (ANC) services directly influence the delivery timing. Interventions to improve the health status of short pregnant women and prevent stunting neonates can be improved by improving the knowledge, attitudes, and behavior of short pregnant women about antenatal care, and knowledge of pregnant women about nutritional intake. The Short Pregnancy Medical Framework Support Model was developed for use in providing support to short pregnant women to prevent infant stunting.

Difference in risk of preterm and small-for-gestational-age birth depending on maternal occupations in Japan

OBJECTIVES

In this study, an association between the mother's occupations with preterm and small-for-gestational-age (SGA) births was investigated using national data in Japan, and individual-level birth data from the Report of Vital Statistics: Occupational and Industrial Aspects in the 2015 fiscal year were used. Preterm and SGA birth rates were calculated for each of infant characteristics, and relative risk of each type of maternal occupations (categorized into 12 types) for the outcomes was estimated using a log binomial regression model.

RESULTS

Data of 997,600 singleton births were analyzed. Among maternal occupations, preterm birth rate was highest among carrying, cleaning, packaging, and related workers (5.65%) and lowest among security workers (4.24%). SGA birth rate was highest among manufacturing process workers (5.91%) and lowest among security workers (4.00%). We found significantly elevated risks for preterm birth among manufacturing process workers compared with unemployed mothers, and significantly elevated risks for SGA birth compared with unemployed mothers were observed among sales workers, service workers, and manufacturing process workers. In contrast, security workers had a significantly decreased risk for SGA birth compared with unemployed mothers.

Early-childhood linear growth faltering in low- and middle-income countries

Globally, 149 million children under 5 years of age are estimated to be stunted (length more than 2 standard deviations below international growth standards)1,2. Stunting, a form of linear growth faltering, increases the risk of illness, impaired cognitive development and mortality. Global stunting estimates rely on cross-sectional surveys, which cannot provide direct information about the timing of onset or persistence of growth faltering-a key consideration for defining critical windows to deliver preventive interventions. Here we completed a pooled analysis of longitudinal studies in low- and middle-income countries (n = 32 cohorts, 52,640 children, ages 0-24 months), allowing us to identify the typical age of onset of linear growth faltering and to investigate recurrent faltering in early life. The highest incidence of stunting onset occurred from birth to the age of 3 months, with substantially higher stunting at birth in South Asia. From 0 to 15 months, stunting reversal was rare; children who reversed their stunting status frequently relapsed, and relapse rates were substantially higher among children born stunted. Early onset and low reversal rates suggest that improving children's linear growth will require life course interventions for women of childbearing age and a greater emphasis on interventions for children under 6 months of age.

The rise and fall of SES gradients in heights around the world

We use data from a large sample of low- and middle-income countries to study the association (or "gradient") between child height and maternal education. We show that the gap in height between high- and low-SES children is small at birth, rises throughout childhood, and declines in adolescence as girls and boys go through puberty. This inverted U-shaped pattern is consistent with a degree of catch-up in linear height among children of low- relative to high-SES families, in partial contrast to the argument that height deficits cannot be overcome after the early years of life. This finding appears to be explained by the association between SES and the timing of puberty and therefore of the adolescent growth spurt: low-SES children start their adolescent growth spurt later and stop growing at later ages as well.

Secular trends of low birth weight, preterm birth, and small for gestational age in Shanghai from 2004 to 2020: an age-period-cohort analysis

BACKGROUND

Although highly heterogeneous among countries, the incidence rates of low birth weight (LBW), preterm birth (PTB), and small for gestational age (SGA) have been increasing globally over the past two decades. To better understand the cause of these secular trends, this study aimed to investigate the effects of age, period, and birth cohort on LBW, PTB, and SGA rates in Shanghai.

METHODS

Data from 2,958,695 singleton live births at 24-41 gestational weeks between 2004 and 2020 were obtained for this study. Age-period-cohort models based on Poisson regression were used to evaluate the independent effects of maternal age, delivery period, and maternal birth cohort on the trends in LBW, PTB, and SGA.

RESULTS

The overall prevalence rates of LBW, PTB, and SGA were 2.9%, 4.7%, and 9.3%, respectively, and significant changes were observed (average annual change: + 10.7‰, + 9.1‰, -11.9‰) from 2004 to 2020. Cohort effect increased steadily, from 1960 (risk ratio [RR] = 0.71, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.65-0.78) to 1993 (RR = 0.97, 95% CI: 0.94-1.01) for LBW and from 1960 (RR = 0.69, 95% CI: 0.64-0.75) to 2004 (RR = 1.02, 95% CI: 0.94-1.12) for PTB. A strong cohort effect was found with the highest risk of SGA (RR = 1.82, 95% CI: 1.72-1.93) in 1960 and the lowest risk (RR = 0.57, 95% CI: 0.54-0.61) in 2004, compared with the reference cohort of 1985. There was a "U-shaped" maternal age effect on LBW and PTB and a weak period effect on the three birth outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggested a significant independent effect of age, period, and birth cohort on the three birth outcomes. The increasing rates of LBW and PTB motivated us to focus on young and advanced pregnant women. Meanwhile, the prevalence of SGA decreased steadily, illustrating the need for further research on the mechanisms underlying these trends.

Preterm pigs for preterm birth research: reasonably feasible

Preterm birth will disrupt the pattern and course of organ development, which may result in morbidity and mortality of newborn infants. Large animal models are crucial resources for developing novel, credible, and effective treatments for preterm infants. This review summarizes the classification, definition, and prevalence of preterm birth, and analyzes the relationship between the predicted animal days and one human year in the most widely used animal models (mice, rats, rabbits, sheep, and pigs) for preterm birth studies. After that, the physiological characteristics of preterm pig models at different gestational ages are described in more detail, including birth weight, body temperature, brain development, cardiovascular system development, respiratory, digestive, and immune system development, kidney development, and blood constituents. Studies on postnatal development and adaptation of preterm pig models of different gestational ages will help to determine the physiological basis for survival and development of very preterm, middle preterm, and late preterm newborns, and will also aid in the study and accurate optimization of feeding conditions, diet- or drug-related interventions for preterm neonates. Finally, this review summarizes several accepted pediatric applications of preterm pig models in nutritional fortification, necrotizing enterocolitis, neonatal encephalopathy and hypothermia intervention, mechanical ventilation, and oxygen therapy for preterm infants.

Undernutrition among rural school-age children: a major public health challenge for an aspirational district in Karnataka, India

Background

For school-age children, a healthy transition from childhood to adolescence and adulthood depends on proper nutrition. Globally, most nutritional surveys focus on preschool and adolescents, neglecting school-age children. Recent studies have shown the prevalence of thinness among adolescents to be 26.5% in Karnataka. Similarly, among children aged < 5 years in the Raichur district, the prevalence of stunting, wasting, and being underweight was 39.8, 23.2, and 40.7%, respectively. The present study aimed to bridge the data gap between < 5 years of children and adolescents through a nutritional survey of school-going children in Raichur, one of the aspirational districts of India.

Materials and methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted from January to March 2020 among rural school-age children (n = 2700) in 30 villages of the Raichur district of Karnataka, India. The school children were selected through a multi-stage cluster sampling technique. The WHO Anthro-plus software was used for calculating the age and sex-specific Z-scores for weight-for-age (WAZ), height-for-age (HAZ), and BMI-for-age (BAZ).

Results

Of the 2,700 school-age children surveyed, the mean weight and height were 22.2 kg (+5.8) and 124.9 cm (+11.6), respectively. The prevalence of children having weight-for-age Z-scores < -2 SD (Underweight) was 45.3% (95% CI: 42.7%-47.8%). The magnitude of stunting and severe stunting was 19.5% (95% CI: 18.0%-21.0%) and 7.6% (95% CI: 6.6%-8.6%), respectively. The proportion of children with BMI for age Z-scores < -2SD (thinness) was 43% (95% CI: 41.1%-44.9%), with sub-district Sindhanur having a dual burden of malnutrition.

Conclusion

Despite many flagship programs, the prevalence of undernutrition in school-age children remains a considerable public health problem in the aspirational district of Raichur, India. Furthermore, exploratory studies are recommended to identify the factors associated with undernutrition among school-age children and strategize evidence-based intervention.

Risk factors for inadequate and excessive gestational weight gain in 25 low- and middle-income countries: An individual-level participant meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Many women experience suboptimal gestational weight gain (GWG) in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), but our understanding of risk factors associated with GWG in these settings is limited. We investigated the relationships between demographic, anthropometric, lifestyle, and clinical factors and GWG in prospectively collected data from LMICs.

METHODS AND FINDINGS

We conducted an individual participant-level meta-analysis of risk factors for GWG outcomes among 138,286 pregnant women with singleton pregnancies in 55 studies (27 randomized controlled trials and 28 prospective cohorts from 25 LMICs). Data sources were identified through PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science searches for articles published from January 2000 to March 2019. Titles and abstracts of articles identified in all databases were independently screened by 2 team members according to the following eligibility criteria: following inclusion criteria: (1) GWG data collection took place in an LMIC; (2) the study was a prospective cohort or randomized trial; (3) study participants were pregnant; and (4) the study was not conducted exclusively among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected women or women with other health conditions that could limit the generalizability of the results. The Institute of Medicine (IOM) body mass index (BMI)-specific guidelines were used to determine the adequacy of GWG, which we calculated as the ratio of the total observed weight gain over the mean recommended weight gain. Study outcomes included severely inadequate GWG (percent adequacy of GWG <70), inadequate GWG (percent adequacy of GWG <90, inclusive of severely inadequate), and excessive GWG (percent adequacy of GWG >125). Multivariable estimates from each study were pooled using fixed-effects meta-analysis. Study-specific regression models for each risk factor included all other demographic risk factors measured in a particular study as potential confounders, as well as BMI, maternal height, pre-pregnancy smoking, and chronic hypertension. Risk factors occurring during pregnancy were further adjusted for receipt of study intervention (if any) and 3-month calendar period. The INTERGROWTH-21st standard was used to define high and low GWG among normal weight women in a sensitivity analysis. The prevalence of inadequate GWG was 54%, while the prevalence of excessive weight gain was 22%. In multivariable models, factors that were associated with a higher risk of inadequate GWG included short maternal stature (<145 cm), tobacco smoking, and HIV infection. A mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) of ≥28.1 cm was associated with the largest increase in risk for excessive GWG (risk ratio (RR) 3.02, 95% confidence interval (CI) [2.86, 3.19]). The estimated pooled difference in absolute risk between those with MUAC of ≥28.1 cm compared to those with a MUAC of 24 to 28.09 cm was 5.8% (95% CI 3.1% to 8.4%). Higher levels of education and age <20 years were also associated with an increased risk of excessive GWG. Results using the INTERGROWTH-21st standard among normal weight women were similar but attenuated compared to the results using the IOM guidelines among normal weight women. Limitations of the study's methodology include differences in the availability of risk factors and potential confounders measured in each individual dataset; not all risk factors or potential confounders of interest were available across datasets and data on potential confounders collected across studies.

CONCLUSIONS

Inadequate GWG is a significant public health concern in LMICs. We identified diverse nutritional, behavioral, and clinical risk factors for inadequate GWG, highlighting the need for integrated approaches to optimizing GWG in LMICs. The prevalence of excessive GWG suggests that attention to the emerging burden of excessive GWG in LMICs is also warranted.

Nutritious Supplemental Foods for Pregnant Women from Food Insecure Settings: Types, Nutritional Composition, and Relationships to Health Outcomes

There is growing evidence that the provision of nutritious supplemental foods to undernourished pregnant women can improve maternal and infant outcomes. However, comparing and synthesizing the evidence base is complicated by differences in interventions and products and the use of ambiguous terminology. We aimed to define 2 common types of nutritious supplemental foods used in pregnancy, balanced energy-protein (BEP) supplements and lipid-based nutrient supplements (LNS), and to review the evidence supporting each via a narrative review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses (SRMAs). Information about the nutritional composition of the food supplements and their effects on maternal and infant outcomes was abstracted. Five SRMAs (n = 20 trials) evaluated the effect of BEP compared with no BEP/control (comparison group commonly received iron and folic acid [IFA]). BEP foods/products ranged in calories (118-1017 kcals), protein (3-50 g), fat (6-57 g), and micronutrient content. Overall, maternal BEP improved birth weight and reduced the risk of stillbirth and small for gestational age when compared with no BEP/control in pregnancy. Three SRMAs (n = 5 trials) evaluated the effect of LNS compared with IFA or multiple micronutrients (MMNs). The LNS interventions comprised small- and large-quantity LNS that ranged in calories (118-746 kcals), protein (3-21 g), fat (10-53 g), and micronutrient content. LNS compared with IFA increased pregnancy duration, birth weight, and birth length and reduced the risk of small for gestational age and infant stunting; however, no beneficial effect of LNS was identified when compared with MMN. Despite heterogeneity in the nutritional composition of BEP supplements, the evidence suggests that in nutritionally at-risk populations, these products may improve birth outcomes in pregnant women. The evidence is limited but promising when LNS is compared with IFA in improving maternal and infant outcomes. Overall, BEP, compared with MMN or LNS, are key areas that have not been studied and deserve attention.

Small vulnerable newborns-big potential for impact

Despite major achievements in child survival, the burden of neonatal mortality has remained high and even increased in some countries since 1990. Currently, most neonatal deaths are attributable to being born preterm, small for gestational age (SGA), or with low birthweight (LBW). Besides neonatal mortality, these conditions are associated with stillbirth and multiple morbidities, with short-term and long-term adverse consequences for the newborn, their families, and society, resulting in a major loss of human capital. Prevention of preterm birth, SGA, and LBW is thus critical for global child health and broader societal development. Progress has, however, been slow, largely because of the global community's failure to agree on the definition and magnitude of newborn vulnerability and best ways to address it, to frame the problem attractively, and to build a broad coalition of actors and a suitable governance structure to implement a change. We propose a new definition and a conceptual framework, bringing preterm birth, SGA, and LBW together under a broader umbrella term of the small vulnerable newborn (SVN). Adoption of the framework and the unified definition can facilitate improved problem definition and improved programming for SVN prevention. Interventions aiming at SVN prevention would result in a healthier start for live-born infants, while also reducing the number of stillbirths, improving maternal health, and contributing to a positive economic and social development in the society.

Biological and pathological mechanisms leading to the birth of a small vulnerable newborn

The pathway to a thriving newborn begins before conception and continues in utero with a healthy placenta and the right balance of nutrients and growth factors that are timed and sequenced alongside hormonal suppression of labour until a mature infant is ready for birth. Optimal nutrition that includes adequate quantities of quality protein, energy, essential fats, and an extensive range of vitamins and minerals not only supports fetal growth but could also prevent preterm birth by supporting the immune system and alleviating oxidative stress. Infection, illness, undernourishment, and harmful environmental exposures can alter this trajectory leading to an infant who is too small due to either poor growth during pregnancy or preterm birth. Systemic inflammation suppresses fetal growth by interfering with growth hormone and its regulation of insulin-like growth factors. Evidence supports the prevention and treatment of several maternal infections during pregnancy to improve newborn health. However, microbes, such as Ureaplasma species, which are able to ascend the cervix and cause membrane rupture and chorioamnionitis, require new strategies for detection and treatment. The surge in fetal cortisol late in pregnancy is essential to parturition at the right time, but acute or chronically high maternal cortisol levels caused by psychological or physical stress could also trigger labour onset prematurely. In every pathway to the small vulnerable newborn, there is a possibility to modify the course of pregnancy by supporting improved nutrition, protection against infection, holistic maternal wellness, and healthy environments.

Relationship between Birth Order and Postnatal Growth until 4 Years of Age: The Japan Environment and Children’s Study

Later-borns tend to be shorter than first-borns in childhood and adulthood. However, large-scale prospective studies examining growth during infancy according to birth order are limited. We aimed to investigate the relationship between birth order and growth during the first 4 years of life in a Japanese prospective birth cohort study. A total of 26,249 full-term singleton births were targeted. General linear and multivariable logistic regression models were performed and adjusted for birth weight, parents’ heights, maternal age at delivery, gestational weight gain, maternal smoking and alcohol drinking status during pregnancy, household income, breastfeeding status, and Study Areas. The multivariate adjusted mean length Z-scores in “first-borns having no sibling”, “first-borns having siblings”, “second-borns”, and “third-borns or more” were −0.026, −0.013, 0.136, and 0.120 at birth and −0.324, −0.330, −0.466, and −0.569 at 10 months, respectively. Results similar to those at 10 months were observed at 1.5, 3, and 4 years. The adjusted odds ratios (95% confidence intervals) of short stature at 4 years in “first-borns having siblings”, “second-borns”, and “third-borns or more” were 1.08 (0.84–1.39), 1.36 (1.13–1.62), and 1.50 (1.20–1.88), respectively, versus “first-borns having no sibling”. Birth order was significantly associated with postnatal growth and may be a factor predisposing to short stature in early childhood.

Association between vitamin D level in mother's serum and the level of vitamin D in the serum of pre-term infants

BACKGROUND

Vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency is common in mothers and infants. The present study was conducted with the aim of association between the level of vitamin D in the mother's serum and the level of vitamin D in the serum of preterm infants.

METHOD

The present descriptive - analytical study was performed on 140 mothers and preterm infants referred to the Kamali hospital in Alborz University of Medical Sciences. Sampling was done from available mothers after hospitalization for delivery and their infants during the first 72 hours after delivery. Information from mothers and infants were collected with researcher made check list, including age, type of delivery, number of pregnancies, vitamin D during this pregnancy, infants birth age, gender, and birth weight. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 24 software.

RESULTS

The average age of mothers was 28 ± 5 years and the average age of infants at the time of birth was 30 ± 1 weeks. Forty two infants (67%) were boys and 23 infants (33%) were girls. The results showed a high rate of vitamin D insufficiency and deficiency in mother (44, 49%) and preterm infants (49, 38%). The results of the Pearson correlation test showed that there is a strong and significant relationship between the serum vitamin D level of mothers and preterm infants (P = 0.001). Logistic regression tests showed that mother's vitamin D level had an effect on the infant's vitamin D level.

CONCLUSION

Considering high rate of vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency and relationship between vitamin D in preterm infants serum and mothers, diagnostic screenings are recommended to investigate vitamin D disorders in pregnant mothers, which should be planned, implemented and followed up in the form of a therapeutic program to prevent the occurrence of complications caused by this disorder in the mother and infant.

Association between maternal stature and household-level double burden of malnutrition: findings from a comprehensive analysis of Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey

BACKGROUND

Undernutrition among under-five children is one of the intractable public health problems in Ethiopia. More recently, Ethiopia faced a rising problem of the double burden of malnutrition-where a mother may be overweight/obese, and a child is stated as having undernutrition (i.e., stunting, wasting, or underweight) under the same roof. The burden of double burden of malnutrition (DBM) and its association with maternal height are not yet fully understood in low-income countries including Ethiopia. The current analysis sought: (a) to determine the prevalence of double burden of malnutrition (i.e., overweight/obese mother paired with her child having one form of undernutrition) and (b) to examine the associations between the double burden of malnutrition and maternal height among mother-child pairs in Ethiopia.

METHODS

We used population-representative cross-sectional pooled data from four rounds of the Ethiopia Demographic and Health Survey (EDHS), conducted between 2000 and 2016. In our analysis, we included children aged 0-59 months born to mothers aged 15-49 years. A total of 33,454 mother-child pairs from four waves of EDHS were included in this study. The burden of DBM was the primary outcome, while the maternal stature was the exposure of interest. Anthropometric data were collected from children and their mothers. Height-for-age (HFA), weight-for-height (WFH), and weight-for-age (WFA) z-scores < - 2 SD were calculated and classified as stunted, wasting, and underweight, respectively. The association between the double burden of malnutrition and maternal stature was examined using hierarchical multilevel modeling.

RESULTS

Overall, the prevalence of the double burden of malnutrition was 1.52% (95% CI 1.39-1.65). The prevalence of overweight/obese mothers and stunted children was 1.31% (95% CI 1.19-1.44), for overweight/obese mothers and wasted children, it was 0.23% (95% CI 0.18-0.28), and for overweight/obese mothers and underweight children, it was 0.58% (95% CI 0.51-0.66). Children whose mothers had tall stature (height ≥ 155.0 cm) were more likely to be in the double burden of malnutrition dyads than children whose mothers' height ranged from 145 to 155 cm (AOR: 1.37, 95% CI 1.04-1.80). Similarly, the odds of the double burden of malnutrition was 2.98 times higher for children whose mothers had short stature (height < 145.0 cm) (AOR: 2.98, 95% CI 1.52-5.86) compared to those whose mothers had tall stature.

CONCLUSIONS

The overall prevalence of double burden of malnutrition among mother-child pairs in Ethiopia was less than 2%. Mothers with short stature were more likely to suffer from the double burden of malnutrition. As a result, nutrition interventions targeting households' level double burden of malnutrition should focus on mothers with short stature to address the nutritional problem of mother and their children, which also has long-term and intergenerational benefits.

Influence of maternal age on birth and infant outcomes at 6 months: a cohort study with quantitative bias analysis

BACKGROUND

Maternal age is increasingly recognized as a predictor of birth outcomes. Given the importance of birth and growth outcomes for children's development, wellbeing and survival, this study examined the effect of maternal age on infant birth and growth outcomes at 6 months and mortality. Additionally, we conducted quantitative bias analysis (QBA) to estimate the role of selection bias and unmeasured confounding on the effect of maternal age on infant mortality.

METHODS

We used data from randomized-controlled trials (RCTs) of 21 555 neonates in Burkina Faso conducted in 2019-2020. Newborns of mothers aged 13-19 years (adolescents) and 20-40 years (adults) were enrolled in the study 8-27 days after birth and followed for 6 months. Measurements of child's anthropometric measures were collected at baseline and 6 months. We used multivariable linear regression to compare child anthropometric measures at birth and 6 months, and logistic regression models to obtain the odds ratio (OR) of all-cause mortality. Using multidimensional deterministic analysis, we assessed scenarios in which the difference in selection probability of adolescent and adult mothers with infant mortality at 6 months increased from 0% to 5%, 10%, 15% and 20% if babies born to adolescent mothers more often died during the first week or were of lower weight and hence were not eligible to be included in the original RCT. Using probabilistic bias analysis, we assessed the role of unmeasured confounding by socio-economic status (SES).

RESULTS

Babies born to adolescent mothers on average had lower weight at birth, lower anthropometric measures at baseline, similar growth outcomes from enrolment to 6 months and higher odds of all-cause mortality by 6 months (adjusted OR = 2.17, 95% CI 1.35 to 3.47) compared with those born to adult mothers. In QBA, we found that differential selection of adolescent and adult mothers could bias the observed effect (OR = 2.24, 95% CI 1.41 to 3.57) towards the null [bias-corrected OR range: 2.37 (95% CI 1.49 to 3.77) to 2.84 (95% CI 1.79 to 4.52)], whereas unmeasured confounding by SES could bias the observed effect away from the null (bias-corrected OR: 2.06, 95% CI 1.31 to 2.64).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that delaying the first birth from adolescence to adulthood may improve birth outcomes and reduce mortality of neonates. Babies born to younger mothers, who are smaller at birth, may experience catch-up growth, reducing some of the anthropometric disparities by 6 months of age.

Role of fetal head-circumference-to-maternal-height ratio in predicting Cesarean section for labor dystocia: prospective multicenter study

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the relationship between the fetal head-circumference-to-maternal-height (HC/MH) ratio measured shortly before delivery and the occurrence of Cesarean section (CS) for labor dystocia.

METHODS

This was a multicenter prospective cohort study involving four tertiary maternity hospitals. An unselected cohort of women with a singleton fetus in cephalic presentation, at a gestational age beyond 36 + 0 weeks and without any contraindication for vaginal delivery, was enrolled between September 2020 and November 2021. The MH and fetal HC were measured on admission of the patient to the labor ward. The primary outcome of the study was the performance of the HC/MH ratio in the prediction of CS for labor dystocia. Women who underwent CS for any indication other than failed labor progression, including fetal distress, were excluded from the final analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 783 women were included in the study. Vaginal delivery occurred in 744 (95.0%) women and CS for labor dystocia in 39 (5.0%). CS for labor dystocia was associated with shorter MH (mean ± SD, 160.4 ± 6.6 vs 164.5 ± 6.3 cm; P < 0.001), larger fetal HC (339.6 ± 9.5 vs 330.7 ± 13.0 mm; P < 0.001) and a higher HC/MH ratio (2.12 ± 0.11 vs 2.01 ± 0.10; P < 0.001) compared with vaginal delivery. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the HC/MH ratio was associated independently with CS for labor dystocia (adjusted odds ratio, 2.65 (95% CI, 1.85-3.79); P < 0.001). The HC/MH ratio had an area under the receiver-operating-characteristics curve of 0.77 and an optimal cut-off value for discriminating between vaginal delivery and CS for labor dystocia of 2.09, which was associated with a sensitivity of 0.62 (95% CI, 0.45-0.77), specificity of 0.79 (95% CI, 0.76-0.82), positive predictive value of 0.13 (95% CI, 0.09-0.19) and negative predictive value of 0.98 (95% CI, 0.96-0.99).

CONCLUSIONS

In a large cohort of unselected pregnancies, the HC/MH ratio performed better than did fetal HC and MH alone in identifying those cases that will undergo CS for labor dystocia, albeit with moderate predictive value. The HC/MH ratio could assist in the evaluation of women at risk for CS for labor dystocia. © 2022 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Food profile of Yanomami indigenous children aged 6 to 59 months from the Brazilian Amazon, according to the degree of food processing: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVE

The current study aimed to characterise the food profile of Yanomami indigenous children according to the degree of food processing and its associated factors.

DESIGN

This is a cross-sectional study with Yanomami indigenous children aged 6 to 59 months. Socio-demographic, maternal and infant data were collected through a standardised questionnaire. The food profile was obtained by using a list of thirty-four foods to verify the child's consumption of these foods on the day preceding the interview. Foods were classified according to the degree of processing based on the NOVA system (in natura or minimally processed, processed culinary ingredients, processed and ultra-processed). In natura and minimally processed foods were subdivided into 'regional' and 'urban' foods. Poisson regression analysis was applied to estimate the associated factors according to the 90 % CI.

SETTING

Three villages (Auaris, Maturacá and Ariabú) in the Yanomami indigenous territory, in the Brazilian Amazon.

PARTICIPANTS

In total, 251 Yanomami children aged 6 to 59 months were evaluated.

RESULTS

The prevalence of consumption of 'regional' and 'urban' in natura or minimally processed foods was 93 % and 56 %, respectively, and consumption of ultra-processed foods was 32 %. Ultra-processed food consumption was 11·6 times higher in children of Maturacá and 9·2 times higher in Ariabú when compared with the children of Auaris and 31 % lower in children who had mothers with shorter stature.

CONCLUSION

Despite the high frequency of consumption of in natura and minimally processed foods, the consumption of ultra-processed foods was substantial and was associated with demographic and maternal factors in Yanomani indigenous children under 5 years of age.

Etiological subgroups of term small-for-gestational-age and childhood health outcomes

BACKGROUND

Small-for-gestational-age (SGA) has a heterogeneous etiology. Our study aimed to examine the childhood health outcomes of etiology-distinct term SGA subgroups.

METHODS

Data from the Collaborative Perinatal Project were used. The etiological factors of SGA were categorized into five groups: maternal, fetal, placental, environmental and physiological factors. Primary child outcomes included low IQ and growth restriction. A total of 8417 term infants were eligible.

RESULTS

Compared with AGA, SGA children due to fetal factors had the highest risk of low IQ (aOR = 1.94, 95% CI: 1.45-2.59). SGA infants due to physiological factors had the highest risk of growth restriction (aOR = 6.04, 95% CI: 3.93-9.27). SGA children had a higher risk of growth restriction with the aOR ranging from 3.05 (95% CI: 2.36-3.96) to 5.77 (95% CI: 4.29-7.75) for the number of risk factors that the SGA infants had from 1 to 5. SGA children with any risk factor were associated with a higher risk of lower IQ with the aOR ranging from 1.59 (95% CI: 1.31-1.94) to 1.96 (95% CI: 1.50-2.55). SGA without the five types of etiologies was not associated with adverse child outcomes except for growth restriction (aOR = 3.82, 95% CI: 2.62-5.55).

CONCLUSION

Term SGA of different etiologies may lead to different child health outcomes.

IMPACT

Our study found that SGA of different etiologies may lead to different child health outcomes. Compared with AGA, SGA children due to fetal factors had the highest risk of low IQ. SGA infants due to physiological factors had the highest risk of growth restriction. SGA babies should not be treated the same. In the era of precision medicine, our findings may help pediatricians and parents better manage SGA babies according to different etiologies and the number of risk factors.

Prevalence and predictors of spontaneous preterm births in Nepal: findings from a prospective, population-based pregnancy cohort in rural Nepal-a secondary data analysis

OBJECTIVE

Preterm birth can have short-term and long-term complications for a child. Socioeconomic factors and pregnancy-related morbidities may be important to predict and prevent preterm births in low-resource settings. The objective of our study was to find prevalence and predictors of spontaneous preterm birth in rural Nepal.

DESIGN

This is a secondary observational analysis of trial data (registration number NCT01177111).

SETTING

Rural Sarlahi district, Nepal.

PARTICIPANTS

40 119 pregnant women enrolled from 9 September 2010 to 16 January 2017.

OUTCOME MEASURES

The outcome variable is spontaneous preterm birth. Generalized Estimating Equations Poisson regression with robust variance was fitted to present effect estimates as risk ratios.

RESULT

The prevalence of spontaneous preterm birth was 14.5% (0.5% non-spontaneous). Characteristics not varying in pregnancy associated with increased risk of preterm birth were maternal age less than 18 years (adjusted risk ratio=1.13, 95% CI: 1.02 to 1.26); being Muslim (1.53, 1.16 to 2.01); first pregnancy (1.15, 1.04 to 1.28); multiple births (4.91, 4.20 to 5.75) and male child (1.10, 1.02 to 1.17). Those associated with decreased risk were maternal education >5 years (0.81, 0.73 to 0.90); maternal height ≥150 cm (0.89, 0.81 to 0.98) and being from wealthier families (0.83, 0.74 to 0.93). Pregnancy-related morbidities associated with increased risk of preterm birth were vaginal bleeding (1.53, 1.08 to 2.18); swelling (1.37, 1.17 to 1.60); high systolic blood pressure (BP) (1.47, 1.08 to 2.01) and high diastolic BP (1.41, 1.17 to 1.70) in the third trimester. Those associated with decreased risk were respiratory problem in the third trimester (0.86, 0.79 to 0.94); having poor appetite, nausea and vomiting in the second trimester (0.86, 0.80 to 0.92) and third trimester (0.86, 0.79 to 0.94); and higher weight gain from second to third trimester (0.89, 0.87 to 0.90).

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of preterm birth is high in rural Nepal. Interventions that increase maternal education may play a role. Monitoring morbidities during antenatal care to intervene to reduce them through an effective health system may help reduce preterm birth.

Factors associated with small-for-gestational-age births among preterm babies born <2000 g: a multifacility cross-sectional study in Ethiopia

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to determine the prevalence of small-for-gestational-age (SGA) and appropriate-for-gestational-age (AGA); compare variations in multiple risk factors, and identify factors associated with SGA births among preterm babies born <2000 g.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

SETTING

The study was conducted at five public hospitals in Oromia Regional State and Addis Ababa City Administration, Ethiopia.

PARTICIPANTS

531 singleton preterm babies born <2000 g from March 2017 to February 2019.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Birth size-for-gestational-age was an outcome variable. Birth size-for-gestational-age centiles were produced using Intergrowth-21st data. Newborn birth size-for-gestational-age below the 10th percentile were classified as SGA; those>10th to 90th percentiles were classified as AGA; those >90th percentiles, as large-for-gestational-age, according to sex. SGA and AGA prevalence were determined. Babies were compared for variations in multiple risk factors.

RESULTS

Among 531 babies included, the sex distribution was: 55.44% males and 44.56% females. The prevalences of SGA and AGA were 46.14% and 53.86%, respectively. The percentage of SGA was slightly greater among males (47.62%) than females (44.30%), but not statistically significant The prevalence of SGA was significantly varied between pre-eclamptic mothers (32.42%, 95% CI 22.36% to 43.22%) and non-pre-eclamptic mothers (57.94%, 95% CI 53.21% to 62.54%). Mothers who had a history of stillbirth (adjusted OR (AOR) 2.96 95% CI 1.04 to 8.54), pre-eclamptic mothers (AOR 3.36, 95% CI 1.95 to 5.79) and being born extremely low birth weight (AOR 10.48, 95% CI 2.24 to 49.02) were risk factors significantly associated with SGA in this population.

CONCLUSION

Prevalence of SGA was very high in these population in the study area. Maternal pre-eclampsia substantially increases the risk of SGA. Hence, given the negative consequences of SGA, maternal and newborn health frameworks must look for and use evidence on gestational age and birth weight to assess the newborn's risks and direct care.

Demographic, socio-economic, obstetric, and behavioral factors associated with small-and large-for-gestational-age from a prospective, population-based pregnancy cohort in rural Nepal: a secondary data analysis

BACKGROUND

In South Asia, a third of babies are born small-for-gestational age (SGA). The risk factors are well described in the literature, but many studies are in high-and-middle income countries or measure SGA on facility births only. There are fewer studies that describe the prevalence of risk factors for large-for-gestational age (LGA) in low-income countries. We aim to describe the factors associated with SGA and LGA in a population-based cohort of pregnant women in rural Nepal.

METHODS

This is a secondary data analysis of community-based trial on neonatal oil massage (22,545 women contributing 39,479 pregnancies). Demographic, socio-economic status (SES), medical/obstetric history, and timing of last menstruation were collected at enrollment. Vital signs, illness symptoms, and antenatal care (ANC) attendance were collected throughout the pregnancy and neonatal weight was measured for live births. We conducted multivariate analysis using multinomial, multilevel logistic regression, reporting the odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Outcomes were SGA, LGA compared to appropriate-for-gestational age (AGA) and were multiply imputed using birthweight recalibrated to time at delivery.

RESULTS

SGA was associated with nulligravida (OR: 2.12 95% CI: 1.93-2.34), gravida/nulliparous (OR: 1.86, 95% CI: 1.26-2.74), interpregnancy intervals less than 18 months (OR: 1.16, 95% CI: 1.07-1.27), and poor appetite/vomiting in the second trimester, (OR: 1.27, 95% CI: 1.19-1.35). Greater wealth (OR: 0.78, 95% CI: 0.69-0.88), swelling of hands/face in the third trimester (OR: 0.81, 95% CI: 0.69-0.94) parity greater than five (OR: 0.77, 95% CI: 0.65-0.92), male fetal sex (OR: 0.91, 95% CI: 0.86-0.98), and increased weight gain (OR: 0.93 per weight kilogram difference between 2^nd and 3^rd trimester, 95% CI: 0.92-0.95) were protective for SGA. Four or more ANC visits (OR: 0.53, 95% CI: 0.41-0.68) and respiratory symptoms in the third trimester (OR: 0.67, 95% CI: 0.54-0.84) were negatively associated with LGA, and maternal age < 18 years (OR: 1.39, 95% CI: 1.03-1.87) and respiratory symptoms in the second trimester (OR: 1.27, 95% CI: 1.07-1.51) were positively associated with LGA.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings are in line with known risk factors for SGA. Because the prevalence and mortality risk of LGA babies is low in this population, it is likely LGA status does not indicate underlaying illness. Improved and equitable access to high quality antenatal care, monitoring for appropriate gestational weight gain and increased monitoring of women with high-risk pregnancies may reduce prevalence and improve outcomes of SGA babies.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The study used in this secondary data analysis was registered at Clinicaltrials.gov NCT01177111.

Association between mother's work status and child stunting in urban slums: a cross-sectional assessment of 346 child-mother dyads in Dhaka, Bangladesh (2020)

BACKGROUND

A growing literature highlights the increased risk of stunting among children growing up in informal or slum settlements. Despite relatively high rates of female labor force participation in slums, there is limited evidence on relationship between mother's work participation and nutritional outcomes of children in these settings.

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional study in two large slums (Korail and Tongi) of Dhaka and Gazipur, Bangladesh to assess the association between maternal work and childhood stunting in a low-income urban context. Logistic regression models estimated unconditional and conditional associations between maternal work status and 1) child stunting, 2) child morbidity and dietary intake, and 3) health and hygiene behaviors. Subgroup analyses were done by type of child care support available.

RESULTS

After adjusting for variations in individual and household level characteristics, we found that children of working mothers had nearly twice the odds of being stunted than children of non-working mothers (OR 1.84, 95%CI 1.05-3.23). Large differences in stunting were found by available care support: compared to children of non-working mothers, children of working mothers with nuclear-type family support had 4.5 times increased odds of stunting (OR 4.49, 95%CI 1.81-11.12), while no odds differential was found for children of working mothers with an extended-type family support (OR 0.69, 95%CI 0.30-1.59).

CONCLUSIONS

Maternal employment is associated with a substantial increase in the odds of child stunting in the slum areas studied. Given that these effects only appear to arise in the absence of adequate family support, integrating appropriate childcare support measures for low-income urban working mothers might be an effective strategy to help reduce the prevalence of chronic undernutrition among slum children.

Women's health: optimal nutrition throughout the lifecycle

Sex differences are an important consideration when researching and establishing policies for nutrition and optimal health. For women's health, there are important physiologic, neurologic, and hormonal distinctions throughout the lifecycle that impact nutritional needs. Distinct from those for men, these nutritional needs must be translated into appropriate nutrition policy that aims to not only avoid overt nutritional deficiency, but also to promote health and minimize risk for chronic disease. Through a series of webinars, scientific experts discussed the advances in the understanding of the unique nutritional needs, challenges and opportunities of the various life stages for women across the life course and identified emerging nutritional interventions that may be beneficial for women. Nevertheless, there is concern that existing nutrition policy intended for women's health is falling short with examples of programs that are focused more on delivering calories than achieving optimal nutrition. To be locally effective, targeted nutrition needs to offer different proposals for different cultural, socio-economic, and geographic communities, and needs to be applicable at all stages of growth and development. There must be adequate access to nutritious foods, and the information to understand and implement proven nutritional opportunities. Experts provided recommendations for improvement of current entitlement programs that will address accessibility and other social and environmental issues to support women properly throughout the lifecycle.

Long-Term Health Associated with Small and Large for Gestational Age Births among Young Thai Adults

We examined the long-term health outcomes associated with being born small for gestational age (SGA) or large for gestational age (LGA). A total of 632 young adults aged ≈20.6 years were recruited from a longitudinal study (Chiang Mai, Thailand) in 2010: 473 born appropriate for gestational age (AGA), 142 SGA, and 17 LGA. The clinical assessments included anthropometry, blood pressure (BP), lipid profile, and an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). Young adults born SGA were 1.8 and 3.2 cm shorter than AGA (p = 0.0006) and LGA (p = 0.019) participants, respectively. The incidence of short stature was 8% among SGA compared with 3% in AGA and no cases among LGA participants, with the adjusted relative risk (aRR) of short stature among SGA 2.70 times higher than that of AGA counterparts (p = 0.013). SGA participants also had a 2 h glucose 7% higher than that of the AGA group (105 vs. 99 mg/dL; p = 0.006). Young adults born LGA had a BMI greater by 2.42 kg/m² (p = 0.025) and 2.11 kg/m² (p = 0.040) than those of SGA and AGA, respectively. Thus, the rate of overweight/obesity was 35% in the LGA group compared with 14.2% and 16.6% of SGA and AGA groups, respectively, with corresponding aRR of overweight/obesity of 2.95 (p = 0.011) and 2.50 (p = 0.017), respectively. LGA participants had markedly higher rates of BP abnormalities (prehypertension and/or hypertension) with an aRR of systolic BP abnormalities of 2.30 (p = 0.023) and 2.79 (p = 0.003) compared with SGA and AGA groups, respectively. Thai young adults born SGA had an increased risk of short stature and displayed some impairment in glucose metabolism. In contrast, those born LGA were at an increased risk of overweight/obesity and elevated blood pressure. The long-term follow-up of this cohort is important to ascertain whether these early abnormalities accentuate over time, leading to overt cardiometabolic conditions.

A systematic review on estimating population attributable fraction for risk factors for small-for-gestational-age births in 81 low- and middle-income countries

Background

Small for gestational age (SGA) is a public health concern since it is associated with mortality in neonatal and post-neonatal period. Despite the large magnitude of the problem, little is known about the population-attributable risk (PAR) of various risk factors for SGA. This study estimated the relative contribution of risk factors for SGA, as a basis for identifying priority areas for developing and/or implementing interventions to reduce the incidence of SGA births and related mortality and morbidity.

Methods

We conducted a literature review on 63 potential risk factors for SGA to quantify the risk relationship and estimate the prevalence of risk factors (RFs). We calculated the population-attributable fraction for each of the identified RF for 81 Countdown countries and calculated regional estimates. Twenty-five RFs were included in the final model while extended model included all the 25 RFs from the final model and two additional RFs.

Results

In the final and extended models, the RFs included in each model have a total PAF equal to 63.97% and 69.66%, respectively of SGA across the 81 LMICs. In the extended model, maternal nutritional status has the greatest PAF (28.15%), followed by environmental and other exposures during pregnancy (15.82%), pregnancy history (11.01%), and general health issues or morbidity (10.34%). The RFs included in the final and extended model for Sub-Saharan African (SSA) region have a total PAF of 63.28% and 65.72% of SGA, respectively. In SSA, the top three RF categories in the extended model are nutrition (25.05%), environment and other exposure (13.01%), and general health issues or morbidity (10.72%), while in South-Asia's it was nutrition (30.56%), environment and other exposure (15.27%) and pregnancy history (11.68%).

Conclusions

The various types of RFs that play a role in SGA births highlight the importance of a multifaceted approach to tackle SGA. Depending on the types of RFs, intervention should be strategically targeted at either individual or household and/or community or policy level. There is also a need to research the mechanisms by which some of the RFs might hinder fetal growth.

Population attributable fractions for risk factors for spontaneous preterm births in 81 low- and middle-income countries: A systematic analysis

Background

Complications associated with preterm birth (PTB) are the largest contributor to under-five mortality globally. Success in reaching the Sustainable Development Goal target requires identifying potentially modifiable risk factors for PTB, estimating the relative importance of these risk factors, and identifying/implementing effective prevention strategies to address them.

Methods

We conducted a literature review to define risk relationships and estimate prevalence for established risk factors for spontaneous PTB (sPTB). We then estimated population attributable fractions (PAF) for the sPTB risk factors identified in the review as statistically significant for the 81 low- and middle-income (LMIC) countries included in the Countdown 2030 initiative. We summed country-level findings to produce PAFs for each risk factor and regional estimates for sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia.

Results

Forty-four potential sPTB risk factors were identified. and the final analysis included twenty-four risk factors with evidence of significant associations with sPTB. A second model with three additional risk factors with borderline insignificant associations was also run. Taken together, the twenty-four risk factors had a total PAF of 73% for all 81 countries and 77% and 72% of sPTB in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, respectively. For all countries, maternal undernutrition had the highest PAF (17.5%), followed by maternal infections (16.6%), environmental exposures (16%) and pregnancy history (8.7%).

Conclusions

While multiple risk factors contribute to sPTB, no single risk factor addresses a predominant fraction, and 27% of spontaneous preterm births are not associated with risk factors that we identified. Despite the significant role of preterm birth in child survival, there are major data gaps in LMIC settings. Furthermore, there is a paucity of evidence for effective interventions to prevent preterm birth. Preventing sPTB requires understanding underlying mechanisms leading to sPTB in different populations, and the identification/implementation of effective interventions.

Population-based rates, risk factors and consequences of preterm births in South-Asia and sub-Saharan Africa: A multi-country prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Preterm birth is the leading cause of neonatal deaths in low middle-income countries (LMICs), yet there exists a paucity of high-quality data from these countries. Most modelling estimates are based on studies using inaccurate methods of gestational age assessment. We aimed to fill this gap by measuring the population-based burden of preterm birth using early ultrasound dating in five countries in South-Asian and sub-Saharan Africa.

METHODS

We identified women early in pregnancy (<20 weeks based on last menstrual period) by home visits every 2-3 months (except in Zambia where they were identified at antenatal care clinics) in 5 research sites in South-Asia and sub-Saharan Africa between July 2012 and September 2016. Trained sonographers performed an ultrasound scan for gestational age dating. Women were enrolled if they were 8-19 weeks pregnant on ultrasound. Women <8 weeks were rescheduled for repeat scans after 4 weeks, and identified women were followed through pregnancy until 6 weeks postpartum. Site-specific rates and proportions were calculated and a logistic regression model was used to predict the risk factors of preterm birth.

RESULTS

Preterm birth rates ranged from 3.2% in Ghana to 15.7% in Pakistan. About 46% of all neonatal deaths occurred among preterm infants, 49% in South Asia and 40% in sub-Saharan Africa. Fourteen percent of all preterm infants died during the neonatal period. The mortality was 37.6% for early preterm babies (<34 weeks), 5.9% for late preterm babies (34 to <37 weeks), and 1.7% for term babies (37 to <42 weeks). Factors associated lower gestation at birth included South-Asian region (adjusted mean difference (Adj MD) = -6.2 days, 95% confidence interval (CI) = -5.5, -6.9), maternal morbidities (Adj MD = -3.4 days, 95% CI = -4.6, -2.2), multiple pregnancies (Adj MD = -17.8 days, 95% CI = -19.9,-15.8), adolescent pregnancy (Adj MD = -2.7 days, 95% CI = -3.7, -1.6) and lowest wealth quintile (Adj MD = -1.3 days, 95% CI = -2.4, -0.3).

CONCLUSIONS

Preterm birth rates are higher in South Asia than in sub-Saharan Africa and contribute to 49% and 40% of all neonatal deaths in the two regions, respectively. Adolescent pregnancy and maternal morbidities are modifiable risk factors associated with preterm birth.

Global, Regional, and National Estimates of Nutritional Deficiency Burden among Reproductive Women from 2010 to 2019

Women of reproductive age (15-49 years) are often considered a vulnerable population affected by nutritional deficiencies, impairing their health and that of their offspring. We briefly introduced (a) the incidence and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) trends from 2010 to 2019 and (b) the correlation between sex differences and income levels and nutritional deficiencies of reproductive women firstly. Notably, the burden of overall nutritional deficiencies among reproductive women remained generally stable from 2010 to 2019, whereas the iodine and vitamin A deficiencies as a subcategory were associated with increased incidence rates and DALYs, respectively. A significant increasing trend occurred in South Asia, Southeast Asia, and Turkey for incidence, and Western Sub-Saharan Africa and Zimbabwe had a strong increase for DALYs. Further analysis of the correlation between nutritional deficiency incidence and economic capacity showed that they were not correlated with the income of women themselves, as was the result of income difference with men. The results of this study will help to identify gaps in nutritional deficiency burden among reproductive women and facilitate the development of regional or national responses. Compared with economic capital, macroscopic political guarantees and social and cultural capital are important measures to remedy the nutritional deficiencies of reproductive women.

Nutritional support and prophylaxis of azithromycin for pregnant women to improve birth outcomes in peri-urban slums of Karachi, Pakistan-a protocol of multi-arm assessor-blinded randomized controlled trial (Mumta PW trial)

BACKGROUND

Maternal undernutrition is critical in the etiology of poor perinatal outcomes and accounts for 20% of small-for-gestational-age (SGA) births. High levels of food insecurity, antenatal undernourishment, and childhood undernutrition necessitate the supplementation of fortified balanced energy protein (BEP) during pregnancy in low-income settings especially with scarce literature available in this subject. Hence, this paper extensively covers the protocol of such a trial conducted in an urban slum of Karachi, Pakistan.

METHODS

The trial is community-based, open-labelled, four-arm, and randomized controlled that will include parallel group assignments with a 1:1:1:1 allocation ratio in low-income squatter settlements in urban Karachi, Pakistan. All pregnant women (PW), if identified between > 8 and < 19 weeks of gestation based on ultrasound, will be offered routine antenatal care (ANC) counseling and voluntary participation in the trial after written informed consent. A total number of 1836 PW will be enrolled with informed consent and randomly allocated to one of the four arms receiving: (1) ANC counseling only (control group), (2) ANC counseling plus BEP supplement (intervention arm 1), (3) ANC counseling plus BEP supplement plus 2 doses azithromycin (intervention arm 2), or (4) ANC counseling plus BEP supplement plus daily single dose of nicotinamide and choline (intervention arm 3).

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04012177 . Registered on July 9, 2019.

Maternal resources for care are associated with child growth and early childhood development in Bangladesh and Vietnam

BACKGROUND

Suboptimal child growth and development are significant problems in low- and middle-income countries. Maternal resources for care may help to improve growth and development. This study examined the association of maternal resources for care on child length, motor development and language development of children 12-23.9 months old.

METHODS

We used baseline data from the Alive & Thrive household surveys collected in Bangladesh (n = 803) and Vietnam (n = 635). Resources for care were represented by maternal education, knowledge, height, well-nourishment, mental well-being, decision-making, employment, support in chores and perceived support. The regression analyses were adjusted for household wealth and other covariates on households, children and parents and accounted for geographical clustering.

RESULTS

Maternal height (Bangladesh β = 0.150 p < 0.001, Vietnam β = 0.156 p < 0.001), well-nourishment (Vietnam β = 0.882 p = 0.007) and mental well-being (Bangladesh β = 0.0649 p = 0.008, Vietnam β = 0.0742 p = 0.039) were associated with child length. Well-nourishment (Vietnam β = 0.670 p = 0.042) and support in chores (Bangladesh β = 0.0983 p = 0.021) were associated with child motor development. Mental well-being (Vietnam β = 0.0735 p = 0.013), decision-making autonomy (Bangladesh β = 0.0886 p = 0.029) and perceived support (Vietnam β = 0.445 p = 0.003) were associated with child language development.

CONCLUSION

Maternal height, well-nourishment, mental well-being, decision-making, support in chores and perceived social support were associated with child outcomes. Interventions that help to improve resources among mothers have potential to foster child growth and development.

Enhancing Nutrition and Antenatal Infection Treatment (ENAT) study: protocol of a pragmatic clinical effectiveness study to improve birth outcomes in Ethiopia

INTRODUCTION

The WHO Nutrition Target aims to reduce the global prevalence of low birth weight by 30% by the year 2025. The Enhancing Nutrition and Antenatal Infection Treatment (ENAT) study will test the impact of packages of pregnancy interventions to enhance maternal nutrition and infection management on birth outcomes in rural Ethiopia.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

ENAT is a pragmatic, open-label, 2×2 factorial, randomised clinical effectiveness study implemented in 12 rural health centres in Amhara, Ethiopia. Eligible pregnant women presenting at antenatal care (ANC) visits at <24 weeks gestation are enrolled (n=2400). ANC quality is strengthened across all centres. Health centres are randomised to receive an enhanced nutrition package (ENP) or standard nutrition care, and within each health centre, individual women are randomised to receive an enhanced infection management package (EIMP) or standard infection care. At ENP centres, women receive a regular supply of adequately iodised salt and iron-folate (IFA), enhanced nutrition counselling and those with mid-upper arm circumference of <23 cm receive a micronutrient fortified balanced energy protein supplement (corn soya blend) until delivery. In standard nutrition centres, women receive routine counselling and IFA. EIMP women have additional screening/treatment for urinary and sexual/reproductive tract infections and intensive deworming. Non-EIMP women are managed syndromically per Ministry of Health Guidelines. Participants are followed until 1-month post partum, and a subset until 6 months. The primary study outcomes are newborn weight and length measured at <72 hours of age. Secondary outcomes include preterm birth, low birth weight and stillbirth rates; newborn head circumference; infant weight and length for age z-scores at birth; maternal anaemia; and weight gain during pregnancy.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

ENAT is approved by the Institutional Review Boards of Addis Continental Institute of Public Health (001-A1-2019) and Mass General Brigham (2018P002479). Results will be disseminated to local and international stakeholders.

REGISTRATION NUMBER

ISRCTN15116516.

Association between maternal lipid levels during pregnancy and delivery of small for gestational age: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Studies investigating the relationship between gestational dyslipidemia and small for gestational age (SGA) have reported differing results. This review was performed to determine whether maternal lipid levels during pregnancy were associated with SGA.

METHODS

Literature searches for relevant studies were conducted systematically from establishment until February 2022 with PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library and Web of Science. Risk of bias was assessed with the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and 11-item checklist. According to the classification of GHD parameters, meta-analyses reporting cases regarding total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) and high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) were performed respectively. If I² ≥ 50%, considered to demonstrate substantial heterogeneity, the random effect model was employed. Otherwise, a fixed effect model was employed.

RESULTS

Eight studies (14,213 pregnancies) were included. Decreased levels of TC (MD -0.13; 95% CI -0.24 to -0.02), TG (MD -0.09; 95% CI -0.14 to -0.03) and LDL-C (MD -0.12; 95% CI -0.23 to -0.00) were risk factors for SGA infant birth. No evident association was observed between HDL-C and delivery of SGA (MD -0.08; 95% CI -0.19 to 0.02).

CONCLUSION

Gestations complicated with dyslipidemia, especially lower concentrations of TC, TG and LDL-C, were at significantly higher risk of delivery of SGA.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION

[www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero], identifier [CRD42022304648].

Characteristics that modify the effect of small-quantity lipid-based nutrient supplementation on child growth: an individual participant data meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Meta-analyses show that small-quantity lipid-based nutrient supplements (SQ-LNSs) reduce child stunting and wasting. Identification of subgroups who benefit most from SQ-LNSs may facilitate program design.

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to identify study-level and individual-level modifiers of the effect of SQ-LNSs on child growth outcomes.

METHODS

We conducted a 2-stage meta-analysis of individual participant data from 14 randomized controlled trials of SQ-LNSs provided to children 6-24 mo of age (n = 37,066). We generated study-specific and subgroup estimates of SQ-LNS compared with control and pooled the estimates using fixed-effects models. We used random-effects meta-regression to examine study-level effect modifiers. In sensitivity analyses, we examined whether results differed depending on study arm inclusion criteria and types of comparisons.

RESULTS

SQ-LNS provision decreased stunting (length-for-age z score < -2) by 12% (relative reduction), wasting [weight-for-length (WLZ) z score < -2] by 14%, low midupper arm circumference (MUAC) (<125 mm or MUAC-for-age z score < -2) by 18%, acute malnutrition (WLZ < -2 or MUAC < 125 mm) by 14%, underweight (weight-for-age z score < -2) by 13%, and small head size (head circumference-for-age z score < -2) by 9%. Effects of SQ-LNSs generally did not differ by study-level characteristics including region, stunting burden, malaria prevalence, sanitation, water quality, duration of supplementation, frequency of contact, or average compliance with SQ-LNS. Effects of SQ-LNSs on stunting, wasting, low MUAC, and small head size were greater among girls than among boys; effects on stunting, underweight, and low MUAC were greater among later-born (than among firstborn) children; and effects on wasting and acute malnutrition were greater among children in households with improved (as opposed to unimproved) sanitation.

CONCLUSIONS

The positive impact of SQ-LNSs on growth is apparent across a variety of study-level contexts. Policy-makers and program planners should consider including SQ-LNSs in packages of interventions to prevent both stunting and wasting.This trial was registered at www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO as CRD42019146592.

Exploring the relationships between wasting and stunting among a cohort of children under two years of age in Niger

BACKGROUND

Wasting and stunting, physical growth manifestations of child undernutrition, have historically been considered separately with distinct interventions at the program, policy, and financing levels despite similar risk factors, overlapping burdens and multiplicative risk of death when the conditions are concurrent. The aim of this study was to elucidate shared risk factors and the temporal relationship between wasting and stunting among children under 2 years of age in rural Niger.

METHODS

From August 2014 to December 2019, anthropometric data were collected every 4 weeks from 6 to 8 weeks to 24 months of age for 6567 children comprising 139,529 visits in Madarounfa, Niger. Children were defined as wasted if they had a weight-for-length Z-score < - 2 and stunted if they had a length-for-age Z-score < - 2 using the 2006 World Health Organization child growth standards. Parental, child, and socioeconomic risk factors for wasting and stunting at 6 and 24 months of age and the relationship between episodes of wasting, stunting and concurrent wasting-stunting were assessed using general estimating equations.

RESULTS

Half of children (50%) were female, and 8.3% were born low birthweight (< 2500 g). Overall, at 24 months of age, 14% of children were wasted, 80% were stunted and 12% were concurrently wasted-stunted. We found that maternal short stature, male sex, and low birthweight were risk factors for wasting and stunting at 6 and 24 months, whereas higher maternal body mass index and household wealth were protective factors. Wasting at 6 and 24 months was predicted by a prior episodes of wasting, stunting, and concurrent wasting-stunting. Stunting at 6 and 24 months was similarly predicted by prior episodes of stunting and concurrent wasting-stunting at any prior age but only by prior episodes of wasting after 6 months of age.

CONCLUSIONS

These data support a complex and dynamic bi-directional relationship between wasting and stunting in young children in rural Niger and an important burden of concurrent wasting-stunting in this setting. Further research to better understand the inter-relationships and mechanisms between these two conditions is needed in order to develop and target interventions to promote child growth.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02145000 .

Maternal height, gestational diabetes mellitus and pregnancy complications

AIMS

To explore the glucose-overload hypothesis of artefactual gestational diabetes (GDM) diagnosis in shorter women during oral glucose tolerance testing (OGTT), by investigating associations between height and maternal glycemia; and GDM and pregnancy complications in height-groups.

METHODS

Women from GUSTO (n = 1100, 2009-2010) and NUH (n = 4068, 2017-2018) cohorts underwent a mid-gestation two and three time-point 75 g 2-hour OGTT, respectively. GDM-related complications (hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, preterm delivery, emergency cesarean section, neonatal intensive care unit admission, macrosomia, birthweight) were compared within shorter and taller groups, dichotomized by ethnic-specific median height.

RESULTS

Using WHO-1999 criteria, 18.8% (GUSTO) to 22.9% (NUH) of women were diagnosed with GDM-1999; and by WHO-2013 criteria, 21.9% (NUH) had GDM-2013. Each 5-cm height increment was inversely associated with GDM-1999 (adjusted odds ratio [aOR, 95% CI] = 0.81 [0.76-0.87], 2-h glycemia (adjusted β [aβ, 95% CI] = -0.171 mmol/L [-0.208, -0.135]) and 1-h glycemia (aβ = -0.160 mmol/L [-0.207, -0.112]). The inverse association between height and 2-h glycemia was most marked in "Other" ethnicities (Eurasians/Caucasians/mixed/other Asians) and Indians, followed by Chinese, then Malays. Compared with non-GDM, GDM-1999 was associated with preterm delivery (aOR = 1.76 [1.19-2.61]) and higher birthweight (aβ = 57.16 g [20.95, 93.38]) only among taller but not shorter women.

CONCLUSIONS

Only taller women had an increased odds of GDM-related pregnancy complications. An artefactual GDM diagnosis due to glucose-overload among shorter women is plausible.

Short maternal stature and gestational weight gain among refugee and migrant women birthing appropriate for gestational age term newborns: a retrospective cohort on the Myanmar-Thailand border, 2004-2016

Introduction

To examine the interactions between short maternal stature, body mass index (BMI) and gestational weight gain (GWG) among appropriate for gestational age (AGA) term newborns in a population of refugees and migrants in Southeast Asia.

Methods

This is a retrospective cohort study from 2004 to 2016, including women delivering term, singleton newborns, with first trimester height, weight and gestation dated by ultrasound and a last body weight measured within 4 weeks of birth. AGA newborns were those not classified as small for gestational age or large for gestational age by either INTERGROWTH-21st or Gestation Related Optimal Weight standards. The influence of maternal stature on GWG in delivering an AGA newborn was analysed, with GWG compared with existing National Academy of Medicine (NAM) recommendations.

Results

4340 women delivered AGA newborns. Mean maternal height (SD) was 151.5 cm (5.13), with 58.5% of women considered too short by INTERGROWTH-21st standards. Only one in four women (26.5%, 1150/4340) had GWG within NAM recommendations. Women of shorter stature had a significantly lower mean GWG compared with taller women in underweight and normal BMI categories (p<0.001 for both BMI categories). Mean GWG of overweight and obese women did not differ by height (p=1.0 and p=0.85, respectively) and fell within the lower range of NAM recommendations.

Conclusion

These results suggest that short maternal stature can be an important predictor of GWG and should be considered with prepregnancy BMI. Limited-resource settings and special populations need robust GWG recommendations that reflect height and BMI.

Revisiting maternal and child undernutrition in low-income and middle-income countries: variable progress towards an unfinished agenda

13 years after the first Lancet Series on maternal and child undernutrition, we reviewed the progress achieved on the basis of global estimates and new analyses of 50 low-income and middle-income countries with national surveys from around 2000 and 2015. The prevalence of childhood stunting has fallen, and linear growth faltering in early life has become less pronounced over time, markedly in middle-income countries but less so in low-income countries. Stunting and wasting remain public health problems in low-income countries, where 4·7% of children are simultaneously affected by both, a condition associated with a 4·8-times increase in mortality. New evidence shows that stunting and wasting might already be present at birth, and that the incidence of both conditions peaks in the first 6 months of life. Global low birthweight prevalence declined slowly at about 1·0% a year. Knowledge has accumulated on the short-term and long-term consequences of child undernutrition and on its adverse effect on adult human capital. Existing data on vitamin A deficiency among children suggest persisting high prevalence in Africa and south Asia. Zinc deficiency affects close to half of all children in the few countries with data. New evidence on the causes of poor growth points towards subclinical inflammation and environmental enteric dysfunction. Among women of reproductive age, the prevalence of low body-mass index has been reduced by half in middle-income countries, but trends in short stature prevalence are less evident. Both conditions are associated with poor outcomes for mothers and their children, whereas data on gestational weight gain are scarce. Data on the micronutrient status of women are conspicuously scarce, which constitutes an unacceptable data gap. Prevalence of anaemia in women remains high and unabated in many countries. Social inequalities are evident for many forms of undernutrition in women and children, suggesting a key role for poverty and low education, and reinforcing the need for multisectoral actions to accelerate progress. Despite little progress in some areas, maternal and child undernutrition remains a major global health concern, particularly as improvements since 2000 might be offset by the COVID-19 pandemic.