IMPORTANCE OF PRENATAL CARE AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS OF LOW BIRTH WEIGHT IN THE CITY OF CASCAVEL, PARANÁ, FROM 2011 TO 2021

Abstract

Introduction: In Brazil, the Sistema Único de Saúde provides free prenatal consultations, making them accessible to all pregnant women. This approach has significantly contributed to improving outcomes related to birth weight and, consequently, reducing neonatal and infant morbidity. Objective: To conduct a quantitative analysis of newborn weight in the municipality of Cascavel, Paraná, from 2011 to 2021. Methodology: This is a quantitative and retrospective study conducted in the municipality of Cascavel, based on data from DATASUS. Results and Discussion: The final sample of the study included a total of 74,353 live newborns from 2011 to 2021 in the municipality of Cascavel, Paraná. The total number of low birth weight neonates was 7,225, corresponding to 9.71% of the total sample. These data were associated with the following variables: maternal age, maternal education, gestation duration, type of pregnancy, adequacy of the number of prenatal care visits, and type of delivery. Conclusions: Therefore, the multifactorial etiology of low birth weight challenges the creation of a comprehensive program capable of effectively addressing this issue. Thus, prenatal consultations play a crucial role in early identification of risk factors, implementation of preventive measures, and careful pregnancy monitoring. By promoting a healthy birth weight, these consultations significantly contribute to the well-being of both the mother and the baby, laying the foundation for a healthy start to life and a more promising future.