Revisiting the 'LowBirth Weight paradox' using a model-based definition

Introduction: Immigrant mothers in Spain have a lower risk of delivering Low BirthWeight (LBW) babies in comparison to Spaniards (LBW paradox). This study aimed at revisiting this finding by applying a model-based threshold as an alternative to the conventional definition of LBW. Methods: Vital information data from Madrid was used (2005-2006). LBW was defined in two ways (less than 2500 g and Wilcox's proposal). Logistic and linear regression models were run. Results: According to common definition of LBW (less than 2500 g) there is evidence to support the LBW paradox in Spain. Nevertheless, when an alternative model-based definition of LBW is used, the paradox is only clearly present in mothers from the rest of Southern America, suggesting a possible methodological bias effect. Conclusion: In the future, any examination of the existence of the LBW paradox should incorporate model-based definitions of LBW in order to avoid methodological bias.

Bibliographic Details

Main Authors:	Juárez,Sol, Ploubidis,George B., Clarke,Lynda
Format:	Digital revista
Language:	English
Published:	Sociedad Española de Salud Pública y Administración Sanitaria (SESPAS) 2014
Online Access:	http://scielo.isciii.es/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0213-91112014000200011
Tags:	Add Tag No Tags, Be the first to tag this record!