U.S. Low Birth Weight Deliveries

In 1989, the United States among the developed countries with respect to the rate of low birth weight deliveries, had the highest rate. In fact, the American rate compared unfavorably with the rates in some developing countries. Clearly, greater knowledge and understanding of the determinants of low birth weight are required, if preventive programs are to be successful in lowering the frequency of the problem. The type of work performed by women outside of the home for monetary compensation is one factor implicated as a determinant of low weight births (Meyer, & Daling, 1985).

While the type of work women perform during pregnancy is thought to be a risk factor for LBW, the associations between work and either LBW or premature birth remain controversial. Several researchers have reported that early onset of labor (preterm labor resulting in premature birth) is associated with the work that women do, while other researchers have suggested that lower birth weights, but not shortened gestation periods occur. Still other researchers concluded that both intrauterine growth retardation and premature birth are associated with activities of mothers requiring long periods of standing and other heavy physical demands (Creasy, 1980; Tafari, Nacye, & Bobezie, 1980; Saurel, & Kaminski, 1983; Papiernik, 1984; 5Mamelle, Laumon, & Lazar, 1984; Ramirez, 1986; Smith, Brix, & Heaton, 1988).