Development and validation of a simple device to estimate birthweight and screen for low birthweight in developing countries.

Low birthweight (less than 2500 g) is the major factor associated with the death of infants within the first 4 weeks of life. The mean birthweight of newborn babies of a certain geographic area reflects the quality of maternal and child health care service as well as the degree of socioeconomic development of that particular region. Hence, birthweight is being used increasingly as an indicator for health and socioeconomic planning.