Neighborhood risk factors for low birthweight in Baltimore: a multilevel analysis.

摘要: OBJECTIVES: Past research on low birthweight has focused individual-level risk factors. We sought to assess the contribution of macrolevel social factors by using census tract-level data stratification, community empowerment, and environmental stressors. METHODS: Census information was linked birth certificate records from Baltimore, Md, for period 1985 through 1989. Individual level included maternal education, age, medical assistance health insurance (Medicaid), trimester prenatal care initiation. Methods multilevel modeling two-stage regression analyses were employed. RESULTS: Macrolevel had both direct associations interactions with birthweight. All individual showed interaction variables; that is, behaved differently depending upon characteristics neighborhood residence. For example, women living in high-risk neigh...