Neurodevelopmental and Growth Outcomes Among Low-Birth-Weight Infants Receiving Early Kangaroo Mother Care: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background:
Infants with low-birth-weight face heightened risks of mortality, growth
retardation, and neurodevelopmental deficits, especially in
resource-limited environments. Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) enhances
survival and growth. However, data concerning its long-term
neurodevelopmental effects in Bangladesh is still insufficient.
Objective:
To evaluate neurodevelopmental and growth outcomes in
low-birth-weight children receiving early Kangaroo Mother Care and to
identify predictors of developmental delay.
Methods:
This cross-sectional analytical study was conducted at Bangladesh
Shishu Hospital & amp; Institute, Dhaka from June 2023 to November
2023, involving 65 low-birth-weight children aged 12 to 36 months
who received early Kangaroo Mother Care there. The ASQ-3 was used
to look at neurodevelopment, and WHO standards were used to look at
anthropometric measurements. Chi-square tests, independent t-tests,
pearson correlation, and multivariable logistic regression were used to
identify predictors of developmental delay.
Results:
In general, 67.9% of children demonstrated age-appropriate growth
across all areas, with early initiation of Kangaroo Mother Care within 24
hours (AOR=0.38, p=0.026) and daily practice exceeding eight hours
(AOR=0.41, p=0.045) serving as protective factors. A longer duration of
KMC was positively associated with elevated ASQ-3 scores
(r=0.18–0.29, p<0.05). Children with delays had much lower
anthropometric measurements.
Conclusion:
Early and continuous Kangaroo Mother Care enhances
neurodevelopment and growth in low-birth-weight children,
underscoring its significance in conjunction with nurturing home
environments in resource-constrained contexts.