Year: 2014
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: INTRODUCTION: The last Hungarian study on birth weight of Roma neonates published in 1991 indicated -377 gram crude difference as compared to the general population. Exploration of this complex problem requires more sophisticated, multifactorial linear regression analysis. AIM: To compare Roma and non-Roma maternal and neonatal populations using biomedical and socioeconomic variables focusing on differences in the birth weight of the neonates. METHOD: Data collection with self-identified ethnicity was performed between 2009 and 2012 in five north and eastern counties of Hungary. The authors used the IBM-SPSS v.22 program for Chi-square and t-probe and linear regression analysis. RESULTS: In the sample of Roma (n = 3103) and non-Roma (n = 8918) populations there was a disadvantage in birth weight in Roma neonates by 294 gram in crude terms, but the linear regression model reduced it to 92 gram by the ethnic variable. CONCLUSIONS: Biological (genetic) impact on the weight difference cannot be excluded, however, the multifactorial statistical analysis indicates the priority of socioeconomic factors and behavioural patterns.
Source: Orvosi Hetilap
Institutions: Semmelweis University, University of Debrecen, Davidson College
Language: English
Topic: Romani and Gypsy Studies
Subfield: General Health Professions
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W1817184000