Impact of maternal chronic energy deficiency on newborns in developing countries: A scoping review

Abstract

Chronic energy deficiency (CED) among pregnant women in developing countries is a significant global health concern with direct implications for neonatal health. Despite the abundance of literature on CED, evidence specific to developing countries remains limited. This study aims to investigate the impact of maternal CED on birth outcomes and newborn health in these countries. Using a scoping review design, this study follows the Arksey and O'Malley framework and its modified version. Data were collected from multiple scientific databases, including PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, WHO Global Health Library, POPLINE, and regional databases to facilitate the inclusion of developing countries. The target population was pregnant women with CED in these countries. Studies published between 2015 and 2024 that reported on the relationship between CED and neonatal outcomes were included. A narrative analysis with thematic synthesis was conducted. The prevalence of CED in pregnant women in developing countries ranged from 25% to 43.1%. CED was associated with increased risks of low birth weight (OR=3.45; 95% CI=2.16-5.27; p=0.001), intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), and neonatal complications. Factors such as maternal age <20 years (OR=2.17; 95% CI=1.35-3.47; p=0.002) and high parity (>4) exacerbated these risks. Long-term impacts included impaired cognitive development into adulthood. Maternal CED has a profound negative impact on newborn health. The findings reinforce the need for comprehensive health policies to reduce CED prevalence and mitigate long-term effects on children. To address this, we recommend integrating nutritional interventions into maternal health services, including routine CED screening, tailored counseling, food security enhancement, and women's empowerment. Cross-sectoral policies are essential to reduce CED prevalence and protect maternal and neonatal health outcomes.

Keywords: Birth weight, developing countries, energy deficiency, fetal growth, pregnant women