Kidsdata.org offers the percent and number of infants born at
low birthweight, by age and race/ethnicity of mother. Low
birthweight is defined as babies who are born at less than 2,500
grams (or about 5 lbs, 5 oz). Also available is the percent and
number of infants born at very low birthweight, which is less
than 1,500 grams (about 3 lbs, 3 oz). The percent and number of
infants born preterm is available, as well. Preterm births refer
to babies born before 37 completed weeks of pregnancy. More than
two-thirds of low birthweight babies are born preterm (1). 1.
March of Dimes. (2008). Low birthweight. Retrieved from: http://
www.marchofdimes.com/professionals/medicalresources_lowbirthweig
ht.html In addition to being at higher risk of death during the
first year of life, low birthweight babies are at increased risk
of long-term disabilities, including developmental delays and
learning disabilities, chronic respiratory problems, cerebral
palsy, hearing and vision impairments, and autism (1, 2). Women
who are more