National, regional, and worldwide estimates of low birthweight in 2015, with trends from 2000: a systematic analysis
July 29, 2019
Low birthweight (LBW) of less than 2500 g is an important marker of maternal and fetal health, predicting mortality, stunting, and adult-onset chronic conditions. Global nutrition targets set at the World Health Assembly in 2012 include an ambitious 30% reduction in LBW prevalence between 2012 and 2025. Estimates to track progress towards this target are lacking; this analysis published in the Lancet aims to assist in setting a baseline against which to assess progress towards the achievement of the World Health Assembly targets.
