Low-Birth-Weight Baby A low-birth-weight (LBW) baby is one whose birth weight is less than 2,500 grams, irrespective of the gestational age. Low birth weight may occur because the baby is born prematurely, because of restricted growth inside the uterus, or due to a combination of both. Such babies are more vulnerable to health problems because their body systems may not be fully developed and their nutritional reserves are limited. Therefore, careful nursing care and close observation are essential. One of the major problems in low-birth-weight babies is difficulty in maintaining body temperature. They have a large surface area in relation to their body weight, thin skin, little subcutaneous fat, and limited ability to produce heat. Consequently, they can develop hypothermia easily. Hypothermia increases oxygen and glucose consumption and may lead to respiratory distress, hypoglycaemia and other complications. Respiratory problems are also common, particularly among premature LBW babies. Immature lungs and inadequate surfactant production may cause respiratory distress syndrome. The baby may show rapid breathing, grunting, nasal flaring, chest retractions and cyanosis. Apnoea, or temporary cessation of breathing, can also occur because of immature respiratory control. Feeding difficulties are another important problem. LBW babies may have weak sucking and swallowing reflexes, poor coordination between sucking,