Nature or Nurture? Factors Influencing Newborn Weight

Authors : Kamuran Suman, Ebru Gök, Nihal Durmaz, Murat Suman

Pages : 70-73

Doi:10.38175/phnx.1646060

View : 42 | Download : 57

Publication Date : 2025-07-21

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Objective: A pattern is emerging leading to a rise in birth weights and instances of macrosomia in numerous countries globally. Our study’s objective is to contrast the average birth weights between 2016 and 2020. We aim to explore whether there exists a tendency toward increased mean birth weight and higher rates of macrosomia. Additionally, we seek to assess how neonatal gender, birth method, maternal age, and birth season impact newborn weight. Material and Method: Retrospective analysis encompassed data from a combined 1,348 newborns in 2016 (n: 692) and 2020 (n=656), all born within the 37-40 weeks gestational range. A statistical analysis was conducted on data related to the birth weight of newborns, their gender, gestational duration, the age of the mothers, method of delivery, and the time of year they were born. Results: The research findings indicated a significant increase in the occurrence of macrosomia (defined as birth weight ≥4000 g), rising from 4.8% in 2016 to 8.2% in 2020. In both years, there is a modest positive correlation between the age of the mother and the weight of the newborns. In 2020, a significant disparity in birth weight was noticed between infants delivered via cesarean section and those delivered through the natural birthing process. The study indicated that the season of birth did not have any impact on birth weight. Conclusion: Macrosomia rates experienced an upsurge in 2016. Maternal age, gender of the newborn, and gestational age were examined as distinct risk factors contributing to macrosomia. The study noted that both maternal age and neonatal gender influenced newborn weight, whereas birth seasons had no impact on neonatal weight.
Keywords : Yenidoğan, doğum ağırlığı, makrozomi

ORIGINAL ARTICLE URL