Age-related disparities and spatial distribution of low birthweight in sub-Saharan Africa: using data from demographic and health survey.

ABSTRACT: In Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), the burden of low birthweight (LBW) remains high, leading to considerable short- and long-term consequences for both newborns and mothers. However, limited evidence exists on the disparities and geographical distribution of LBW among adolescent (15-19 years) and non-adolescent women (20-49 years). This study aimed to assess the age-related disparity, geospatial distribution and determinants of LBW in SSA. The study used Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) data from 33 SSA countries released between 2010 and 2023. Concentration curves and indices, absolute and relative difference measures, spatial autocorrelation and hotspot analysis, and multilevel modelling were employed to explore differences in LBW by maternal age group. A total of 27,889 (15.5%) of adolesce

SUBMITTER: Tolossa T 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12485102 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature