Low birth weight

Low birth weight (LBW) is defined as a birth weight of less than 2,500g (5lbs 8oz) and very low birth weight is defined as birth weight of less than 1,500g. Low birth weight babies generally fall into two groups: those born before term (37 weeks) and those who are born at term but are small for their age. Low birth weight of term babies increases the risk of childhood mortality and of developmental problems for the child and is associated with poorer health in later life.

The indicator on low birth weight of term babies is in line with the government's direction for public health on starting well through early intervention and prevention. The indicator has also been included in the Department of Health business plan within the context of addressing issues of premature mortality, avoidable ill-health and inequalities in health, particularly in relation to child poverty.

Low birth weight is an enduring aspect of childhood morbidity, a major factor in infant mortality and has serious consequences for health in later life. There are social inequalities in low birth weight in England and Wales and these inequalities are likely to affect childhood and adult health inequalities in the future.

Key findings

Low birth weight of term babies (2021)

• In Lancashire-12, 2.9% of all live births at term are low birth weight, this is similar to the England rate (2.8%).
• At a district level, in Preston (4.1%), Burnley (4.0%) and Pendle (3.8%) the percentage of all live births at term that are low birth weight is significantly above the England rate. 
• Blackburn with Darwen (4.5%) has one of the highest proportions of low birth weight term babies in England and is significantly above the England rate. In Blackpool the rate is 3.2% and is similar to the England rate.

Low birth weight of all babies (2021)

• In Lancashire-12, 7.4% of still and live births of all babies are low birth weight; this is significantly above the England rate (6.8%).
• In Blackburn with Darwen the rate is 9.4% and is significantly above the England rate. In Blackpool it is 6.6% and is similar to the England rate.

Very low birth weight of all babies (2021)

• In Lancashire-12, 1.1% of still and live births of all babies are very low birth weight; this is similar to the England rate (1.0%).
• In Blackburn with Darwen (1.5%) the percentage is significantly above the England rate and in Blackpool (0.7%) it is similar to the England rate. 

For county and unitary data and further information please see below.

For district data and full functionality of the Public Health Outcomes Framework tool please visit the web page

Page updated March 2023