Maternal Birth Weight Predicts the Birth Weight of the First Live Born Child

Delia B. Carba, University of San Carlos
Tita Lorna L. Perez, University of San Carlos

Birth weight is influenced by environmental and genetic factors. In some studies, familial trends in birth weight were observed where there was significant correlation between parental birth weights and their child’s birth weight. Moreover, maternal birth size was significant predictor of child's birth size after adjusting for confounders. Using data from the Cebu Longitudinal Health and Nutrition Survey which covers three generations already, we determine whether birth weight of females born in May 1983 to April 1984 is associated with the birth weight of their first live births. Estimates showed that for every gram increase in female’s birth weight, the birth weight of her baby is predicted to increase by almost 30 per cent. Gestational age of first live birth revealed a significant association also. The association remained significant after adjusting for covariates. Results of our study typify that maternal birth weight has significant contribution on the next generation’s health.