The overall proportion of preterm with poor weight gain was 197/227 (86.8%). ResultsĪ total of 227 preterm neonates < 37 weeks GA, with male to female ratio of 1:1.2 were enrolled in the study. Results were considered statistically significant if P -value was < 0.05 and 95% confidence interval (CI) did not include 1. Predictors of poor weight gain were evaluated using a multivariate analysis. The risk factors associated with poor weight gain were evaluated. Poor weight gain was defined as weight gain less than 15 g per kg per day. Eligible preterm, were consecutively recruited at admission and followed up until discharge, death or end of neonatal period. MethodsĪ hospital-based prospective cohort study involving preterm neonates with Gestation age (GA) < 37 weeks receiving care at MNH. This study aimed to investigate the proportion and predictors of poor weight gain among preterm neonates at Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH), from September 2018 to February 2019. Postnatal poor weight gain, which can contribute to mortality, can be influenced by feeding practices, medical complications and quality of care that is provided to these high-risk neonates. Preterm delivery is among the major public health problems worldwide and the leading cause of morbidity and mortality among neonates.

Victoria 2 national focus