International Journal of Tropical Medicine
ISSN: Online 1818-779XISSN: Print 1816-3319
Abstract
Early identification of low birth weight (LBW) is critical for reducing neonatal mortality, particularly in resource‐limited settings. This study aimed to explore the correlation between foot length and other anthropometric measurements, including gestational age, birth weight, head circumference and crown heel length, in 200 neonates. Conducted at Mamata Medical College and General Hospital from August 2022‐May 2024, measurements were taken within 72 hours of birth. The majority of neonates were term (60%) and appropriate for gestational age (AGA) (85%). Foot length showed a significant positive correlation with gestational age and birth weight, especially in preterm neonates (r=0.688 for preterm AGA, r=0.542 for term AGA). The highest correlation was observed between foot length and crown heel length in preterm SGA neonates (r=0.925). These findings suggest that foot length is a simple, reliable tool for estimating gestational age and birth weight in neonates, particularly useful in resource‐limited settings and for sick, preterm infants requiring minimal handling.
How to cite this article:
Sanjivani Deepak Maslekar, Maddiboina Hemanth Kumar and G. Somaiah. Validation of Foot Length in Prediction of Gestational Maturity and Birth Weight in Neonates.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36478/10.36478/makijtm.2024.4.55.59
URL: https://www.makhillpublications.co/view-article/1816-3319/10.36478/makijtm.2024.4.55.59