The Impact of Low Birth Weight on the Risk of Early Onset Neonatal Sepsis at Soe Regional Hospital, South Central Timor Regency, East Nusa Tenggara Province

Background: Low Birth Weight (LBW) is one of the risk factors for Early Onset Neonatal Sepsis (EPN). Neonatal mortality is still a challenge both globally and in Indonesia. Based on data from the World Health Organization, neonatal mortality in 2021 reached 47% of the total deaths of 5.0 million toddlers. LBW is one of the highest causes of death in Indonesia for several consecutive years, in 2023 LBW was ranked second at 0.7%. Risk factors for LBW consist of maternal risk factors and fetal risk factors. This study aims to determine the impact of LBW on the risk of early onset neonatal sepsis. 

Methods: This study is a quantitative study with an analytical observational method and a case-control design. The number of samples was 192 respondents of Newborn Babies at Soe Hospital in 2024. Sampling used a simple random sampling technique according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria that had been set. This research instrument used secondary data in the form of medical records and data collection sheets. Data were analyzed using the chi square method. 

Results: The results of the study showed that there was a relationship between LBW and Early Onset Neonatal Sepsis with a p value = 0.006 (p < 0.05) and OR 2.434. Conclusion: There is a relationship between LBW and Early Onset Neonatal Sepsis. nSuggestions for further researchers to examine other risk factors causing LBW using different research designs and sampling techniques.