The effect of maternal cigarette smoking on low birth weight and preterm birth in Wisconsin, 1991.

Cigarette smoking is one of the most preventable causes of low birth weight in the United States. This paper presents new data on the relationship between low birth weight and maternal cigarette smoking in Wisconsin based on an analysis of 1991 birth certificates. In Wisconsin in 1991, 22.5% of mothers reported smoking cigarettes during pregnancy. Mothers who smoked cigarettes were twice as likely to bear low birth weight infants as were non-smokers. Low birth weight accounted for 49% of newborn hospital charges totaling $60.7 million. A 50% reduction in maternal smoking could potentially save $5 million in newborn hospital costs. A women is more likely to quit smoking during pregnancy. Physicians are in a unique position to encourage positive behavior change that will reduce the risk for low birth weight and have long term benefits for her and her family.