Social background of small-for-gestational-age infants

INTRODUCTION: The Small for Gestational Age birth rate is still unchanged during the last decades opposite to the premature birth frequency. This fact needs further examinations. AIM AND METHODS: The association of socio-economic status and the development of intrauterine growth retardation was analysed in a two year prospective study. The study group consisted of 34 patients having small-for-gestational-age newborns. The control group consisted of those 68 women having normal term birth. RESULTS: Significant differences were found in the Body Mass Index, smoking habits during pregnancy, education, and poverty status. The difference in age was expressed, but not significant. There were no significant differences among alcohol and coffein consumption, family status, household crowding and employment. CONCLUSION: Beside the effective medical prenatal care the importance of education and social support is emphasised.