Low birth weight (LBW) babies are categorized based on their weight at birth. Specifically, there are two main types of LBW babies:
Types of Low Birth Weight Babies
According to reference [1], low birth weight is further broken down into the following two categories:
- Very Low Birth Weight (VLBW): Babies born weighing less than 1500 grams fall into this category.
- Extremely Low Birth Weight (ELBW): Babies born weighing less than 1000 grams are classified as ELBW.
Factors Contributing to LBW
It's important to understand that LBW is often a result of:
- Preterm Birth (PTB): This refers to babies born before 37 weeks of gestation.
- Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR): Also known as fetal growth restriction, this occurs when a baby doesn't grow at the expected rate inside the womb.
- Combination of Preterm Birth and IUGR: In some cases, low birth weight can be caused by both PTB and IUGR.
Summary Table of LBW Baby Types
| Category | Weight at Birth |
|---|---|
| Very Low Birth Weight (VLBW) | Less than 1500 grams |
| Extremely Low Birth Weight (ELBW) | Less than 1000 grams |
Understanding these classifications is crucial in neonatal care as they are associated with different levels of medical needs and potential health challenges for newborns.
