Modeling the Effect of Mother's Characteristics on the Weight of a Newborn.

BACKGROUND Neonatal mortality related to fetal growth is a public policy issue in Nigeria. METHOD To determine maternal characteristics associated with fetal growth and neonatal birth weight, a secondary analysis of data collected from 701 mothers using a multiple linear regression model was undertaken. FINDINGS Maternal age, parity, and weight were found to be significantly associated with neonatal birth weight. The number of antenatal visits and maternal level of education were not found to be associated with neonatal birth weight. CONCLUSIONS To the extent that providers might influence maternal weight, education and counselling during pregnancy may impact fetal growth and neonatal birth weight.