Organizers: The webinar is hosted by WHO, UNICEF, and SUN Movement
Background
Low birth weight is a critical global health issue, leading to significantly higher risk of neonatal mortality and long-term health complications, including infections, developmental delays, and non-communicable diseases. With over 20 million low birth weight births each year–15-20% of all births globally–the 2025 Global Nutrition Target will not be met. This issue represents a substantial barrier to achieving Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those related to health, education, and reduced inequalities.
In this webinar, we will examine the complex causes of low birth weight, from maternal malnutrition and infections to environmental stressors and socioeconomic inequities. This session will highlight the importance of preventive measures like improved maternal nutrition, quality antenatal care, and supportive environments during pregnancy.
The webinar aims to:
- Highlight the current progress and identify barriers to achieving the Global Nutrition Targets on low birth weight by 2025.
- Present the suggested extension of the WHA Global Nutrition Targets to align with the 2030 agenda.
- Showcase best practice examples from countries to inspire others in their journey to commitment-making.
- Focus attention on high-impact interventions needed to improve low birth weight.
- Describe key resources that countries can use to address low birth weight relevant to the scope of the Paris Nutrition for Growth Summit and the SUN Global Gathering in 2025.
Agenda
Moderator: Sophie Healhy-Thow, GAIN
12:00 – 12:05: Welcome remarks, Per Arshon, WHO
12:05 – 12:15: Why low birthweight is a major priority, Habtamu Fekadu, Save the Children
12:15 – 12:30: Charting the way forward to 2030, TBC
12:30 – 12:50: Country examples, Vietnam (TBC), Nigeria (TBC)
12:50 – 13:25: Panel Discussion and Q&A
13:25 – 13:30: Closing remarks
Languages
The webinars will be simultaneously interpreted in Arabic, English, French, Portuguese, Spanish, and Russian.