In fact, the Institute of Medicine has identified 41 potential risk factors associated with low birth weight, from high blood pressure to exposure to toxic substances. An overwhelming risk factor that is not yet well understood is race. Some reasons that may partially explain this are known. Yet these factors do not fully explain the birth-weight gap between blacks and whites. The U.S. Assistant Secretary of Health reported in 1984 that even when several factors are controlled simultaneously,the gap remains.
Researchers continue to study the problem.
Complications arising during pregnancy that can add to the risk of low birth weight include infections, uterine bleeding, sustained high blood pressure, and detachment of the placenta. To give her baby the best chance for a normal birth weight, it's essential that a pregnant woman seek early and frequent prenatal care from a physician. In 1971, a study with a prematurity prevention program funded by the French government was implemented at Haguenau, France. Many private and public organizations are working to improve maternal and infant health. The coalition now comprises more than 75 national groups in more than 40 states.