Single Biggest Cancer Dictionary in the World
What is
low birth weight
?Pronunciation: /loʊ bərθ weɪt/
low birth weight
Definition
A term used to describe an infant born weighing 5.5 pounds (2500 grams) or less. A low birth weight may occur when an infant is born too early (premature). These infants may have an increased risk of serious health problems. Smoking cigarettes, being exposed to secondhand tobacco smoke, drinking alcohol, and taking certain drugs during pregnancy can increase the risk of having an infant with a low birth weight.