Association of neonatal anthropometry with gestational age and birth weight: A cross-sectional study

Background: Low birth weight (LBW) and prematurity remain major contributors to neonatal morbidity and mortality, particularly in resource-limited settings where accurate weighing scales and reliable gestational age assessment may not be available. Simple anthropometric measurements may serve as practical surrogate indicators of neonatal maturity. Objectives: To evaluate the correlation between neonatal anthropometric parameters and gestational age and birth weight, and to determine optimal cut-off values for identifying preterm and low birth weight neonates. Methods: This hospital-based cross-sectional study included 180 neonates admitted to a tertiary care center in Bangalore, India, from July to October 2025. Head circumference, chest circumference, crown-heel length, foot length, and mid-upper arm circumference were measured using standardized techniques. Gestational age was assessed using the New Ballard Score. Correlation coefficients and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses were performed using SPSS version 28. Results: All anthropometric parameters demonstrated strong positive correlations with both gestational age and birth weight (r = 0.81-0.92; p 0.94 for all parameters). Chest circumference was the most accurate predictor of low birth weight, while length and head circumference best identified prematurity. Conclusion: Neonatal anthropometric measurements are reliable, cost-effective screening tools for identifying preterm and low birth weight neonates and may be particularly useful in resource-constrained settings.