Abstract

Accurate assessment of gestational age is not possible in sick newborns and those requiring intensive care. Knowing the gestational age is important for early identification of preterm and referral to higher centre for further care. Foot length can be easily measured, has better correlation with birth weight and it has been observed to be a good predictor of gestational age. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 939 newborns, to determine correlation of foot length with gestational age and other anthropometric parameters such as birth weight, chest circumference and length Results: The mean birthweight of the neonates was found to be 2.88 kg (SD +0.51). The mean head circumference was found to be 33.34 cm (SD +1.92). The mean chest circumference was found to be 35.01 cm (SD +1.93). The mean foot length was found to be 7.07 cm (SD +0.80). The mean gestational age of the neonates included in the study was 38.27 weeks (SD +1.74). A statistically significant positive correlation was observed between gestational age of neonates with anthropometric parameters like weight, head circumference, chest circumference and foot length. Conclusions: Foot length is a low-cost, simple and feasible measurement, with potential to identify gestational age of infants. The foot length (independent variable) is strongly related with the period of gestation. As this method is simple, economical and accurate it can be used by primary health worker even in a rural setup.

Description