The low birth weight has become a health indicator that is raising increasing concern among medical personnel, as the figures remain above normal, as acknowledged by health authorities in the municipality of San Luis, Santiago de Cuba.
Specialists reported to the local newspaper Sierra Maestra that the main causes of low birth weight include teenage pregnancy, smoking habits, high blood pressure, and vaginal infections.
Without acknowledging that food shortages could also affect pregnant women, the authorities argue that the factors mentioned are preventable through primary care actions and strict compliance with medical guidelines during pregnancy.
They also note that the municipality conducts regular checks at the Medical Consultancies to identify and reduce the risks of premature births.
In necessary cases, arrangements are made for admissions to the Maternal Home or at the expectant mother's own residence, with the aim of ensuring that the pregnancy reaches full term under optimal conditions.
Health authorities emphasize that the discipline and responsibility of expectant mothers are key to reversing the trend, through attendance at all scheduled appointments and balanced nutrition, especially within the family environment.
The number of newborns with low birth weight in Cuba is increasing, which contributes to the rise in neonatal mortality and reveals serious weaknesses in maternal and child healthcare.
According to data from the Ministry of Public Health, the infant mortality rate in the country rose to 8.2 per 1,000 live births as of July 12, 2025, compared to 7.4 recorded during the same period the previous year.
This upward trend warns of a sustained deterioration of healthcare services, including an increase in cases of low birth weight.
Specialists in Ciego de Ávila point out that among the main causes of this infant mortality are neonatal morbidity, low birth weight, and preterm births.
So far this year, 41 cases of low birth weight have been reported, many of which are related to pregnancies in adolescents.
The government attributes this increase to structural factors such as the shortage of medications, inadequate healthcare infrastructure, and the economic crisis that undermines prenatal and neonatal care.
Frequently asked questions about the increase in low birth weight newborns in Santiago de Cuba
Why is the number of newborns with low birth weight increasing in Santiago de Cuba?
The increase in the number of newborns with low birth weight in Santiago de Cuba is attributed to factors such as teenage pregnancy, smoking habits, high blood pressure, and vaginal infections. Health authorities also mention food scarcity as a potential influencing factor, although they do not officially acknowledge it. The economic crisis and the precariousness of maternal and child healthcare have further weakened the situation.
What are the consequences of low birth weight in Cuba?
Low birth weight in Cuba contributes to the increase in neonatal mortality and reveals serious weaknesses in maternal and child care. The infant mortality rate has risen, indicating a deterioration of health services. Complications arising from low birth weight include neonatal morbidity and preterm births, which increase health risks for newborns.
What measures are health authorities taking to address this situation?
Health authorities are implementing periodic controls in Medical Consulting Rooms and managing admissions to the Maternity Home or the home of the pregnant woman. These measures aim to identify and reduce the risks of premature births and ensure that pregnancies reach term under optimal conditions. However, the lack of resources and the economic crisis limit the effectiveness of these actions.
How does the economic crisis affect maternal and child healthcare in Cuba?
The economic crisis in Cuba affects maternal and child healthcare by limiting access to food, medicines, and adequate infrastructure. The scarcity of medical resources and the shortage of essential food items exacerbate the situation, making it challenging to provide proper care to pregnant women and newborns. This is reflected in the rising infant mortality rates and other related health issues.
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