National Low Birth Weight Survey of Bangladesh 2003-2004
This survey found that more than one-third of babies born in Bangladesh have a low birth weight (<2,500g), putting them at greater risk of developmental impairment, illness and premature death. The mean birth weight of infants is only 2,632g, according to this random sample of 4,400 births. The report recommends strategies focussing on the health and nutrition of women and adolescent girls to improve the birth weight of Bangladeshi babies. The report also calls for a repeat low birth weight survey every 5 years.