Health Disparities in Developmental Status of One-year-old Neonates With Low and Normal Birth Weight: A Comparative Study

Background and Purpose: Low birth weight (LBW) neonates usually experience delays in developing gross and fine motor skills. Studies in Iran reveal a prevalence of growth retardation ranging from 7% to 26.3% among Iranian children. Recognizing the significance of complications associated with LBW, this study aims to scrutinize the developmental status of LBW infants at one year of age and juxtapose it with that of normal birth weight (NBW) neonates. Materials and Methods: This retrospective cohort study involved 105 one-year-old children in Shirvan City, Iran. Participants were selected through a census, and their information was extracted from the SIB system (the integrated health record system). Data collection utilized the 12-month version of the ages and stages questionnaire (ASQ) and a demographic questionnaire. Statistical analyses, including the t-test, Pearson correlation coefficient, and linear regression, were performed using SPSS software, version 26. Results: The ASQ questionnaire revealed that the dimensions of problem-solving and individual-social skills had the lowest and highest mean scores, respectively. A comparison of developmental domains between the two groups did not yield any significant differences. However, when considering gender, a noteworthy relationship emerged in both groups, particularly in communication and gross motor skills, as well as individual-social development and problem-solving. Conclusion: Noteworthy disparities were identified between LBW and NBW infants at birth, encompassing factors such as breastfeeding and maternal educational levels. Consequently, public health policies should prioritize initiatives to enhance mothers’ and infants’ health and nutritional well-being before and during pregnancy and early childhood.