The Average Birth Weight of Babies in Developing Countries

A baby's birth weight is an important indicator of overall health as well as a way to measure development and growth. Therefore, it is important that health professionals and parents understand the average weight expected of a full-term baby. However, there are global differences in average birth weights with significant discrepancies between developing countries and others. Average birth weights in developing countries are significantly lower than in other countries, due to a variety of differences, including nutrition.

  1. A Global Comparison of Birth Weights

    • Global figures define average birth weights worldwide. Babies weighing less than the lower end of the average range are classified as low birth weight babies. Babies born at full term usually fall within a weight range deemed healthy by medical professionals. Globally, this range is 5 pounds 8 ounces to 9 pounds 14 ounces. The average for the United Kingdom is 7 pounds 4 ounces and the average for the United States is 7 pounds 8 ounces.

    Low Birth Weights in Developing Countries

    • Research conducted in collaboration between the World Health Organization and the United Nations Children's Fund in 2004 showed that in the least developed countries in the world 18 percent of babies are considered to be low birth weight in comparison to only 7 percent in the most developed countries. Asia is the worst affected continent with 18.3 percent of babies weighing less than 5 pounds 8 ounces, followed by Africa with a figure of 14.3 percent. South-central Asia is the most significantly affected area with an estimated 27.1 percent. Countries with the highest percentages of low birth weights include Sudan at 31 percent, India with 30 percent, Pakistan at 19 percent and Nigeria, with 14 percent.

    The Causes of Low Birth Weight

    • The research conducted by UNICEF and WHO also identified several causes of low birth weights in developing countries: poor diet and nutrition, genetic factors and poor general health of the mother. These negative factors are all more likely to be experienced by women who live in poor socio-economic conditions, such as those found in developing countries. Other women who are at increased risk of having a low birth weight baby are shorter women, younger women and those who live at high altitudes.

    The Consequences of Low Birth Weight

    • According to UNICEF and WHO, low birth weight can have significant and lasting consequences on babies into their adult lives. Some of the consequences include inhibited growth, delayed cognitive development and chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. There is also a significant risk of mortality and morbidity. Therefore, continued monitoring of the birth weight of babies in developing countries is vital.

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