Influence of maternal periodontal health as a risk factor for low-birth-weight infants in Terai population of Nepal

BACKGROUND: Preterm low birth weight (PLBW) is a leading perinatal problem in developing countries. PLBW is considered as a leading cause of neonatal death in the 1(st) year of life, with problems in childhood and adulthood. Several studies have suggested a possible relationship between PLBW and periodontal status of the expectant mothers. The present study was conducted to determine the association between the maternal periodontitis and the low birth weight (BW) of the babies. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study consisted of 200 primipara mothers ranging between 18 and 35 years old, with a mean age of 23.96 years. The mothers were categorized based on the weight of the infants as cases (BW <2500 g) and as controls (BW ≥2500 g). Age, mean weight, height, body mass index, and periodontal status of the mothers as well as weight of the babies were recorded. Periodontal parameters were assessed using the community periodontal index (CPI). The data were recorded, analyzed, and statistically compared using the Chi-square test (χ(2)). RESULTS: BW of the babies was regressed against CPI. Periodontitis was significantly associated with decrease in BW of the babies (P < 0.0001). CONCLUSION: Our findings showed an association of maternal periodontal disease with PLBW that emphasizes to promote good oral hygiene of the expectant mothers during routine prenatal visits.