Preventing Low Birthweight

Despite recent declines in infant mortality, the rates of low birthweight deliveries in the United States continue to be high. Part I of this volume defines the significance of the problems, presents current data on risk factors and etiology, and reviews recent state and national trends in the incidence of low birthweight among various groups. Part II describes the preventive approaches found most desirable and considers their costs. Research needs are discussed throughout the volume.Table of ContentsFront MatterSummary and RecommendationsPart I: Definitions, Risk Factors, and Trends1. The Significance of Low Birthweight2. Etiology and Risk Factors3. Trends in Low BirthweightPart II: Reducing the Incidence of Low Birthweight4. An Overview of Promising Interventions5. Planning for Pregnancy6. The Effectiveness of Prenatal Care7. Ensuring Access to Prenatal Care8. Improving the Content of Prenatal Care9. Public Information Program10. Prenatal Care and Low Birthweight: Effects on Health CareExpendituresAppendixesA. Risk Factors Associated with Low BirthweightB. Data on Selected Low Birthweight TrendsC. A Summary of Three Prematurity Prevention ProgramsD. Notes on National Data Available to Study Low Birthweight Trendsand to Monitor Related ProgramsIndex