Abstract:
The objective of this study was to identify the aetiological factors of low birth weight in this
context.For this study an up-country plantation population in Nuwara Eliya was
selected.Following measures have been recommended to reduce the low birth weight
incidence on up-country plantations:- Maternity leave in the two weeks penultimate to
delivery should be ensured.Maternal weight gain should be monitored at ante-natal clinics to
ensure a weight gain of 300g,per week or more," At risk" care should be given to mothers
with a past history of low birth weight and low maternal height.Mothers in parity 1 or with
an age of below 20 years or between 30-34 years should also receive special care,Spacing of
births to 24 months or above should be achieved with family planning and breast
feeding,Health education should be given to mothers to commence ante-natal care early in
the pregnancy,preferably before 20 weeks of gestation,Regular ante-natal clinic visits should
be promoted and,Better literacy should achieved through education.
