Impact of Kangaroo Mother Care on Growth and Weight Gain Among Low-Birth-Weight Preterm Infants

Abstract

Low birth weight and preterm birth remain among the most significant challenges confronting neonatal healthcare systems worldwide. Despite substantial improvements in maternal and child health services, millions of infants continue to be born prematurely or with inadequate birth weight each year. These infants face increased risks of mortality, morbidity, impaired growth, developmental delays, and long-term health complications. Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC), originally developed as a low-cost alternative to incubator care, has emerged as an effective intervention capable of improving neonatal survival, promoting healthy growth, and enhancing weight gain among low-birth-weight preterm infants. The intervention incorporates prolonged skin-to-skin contact, exclusive breastfeeding, early discharge, and continuous follow-up care. Growing evidence indicates that KMC positively influences thermoregulation, physiological stability, nutritional status, neurodevelopment, and parent–infant bonding. This review examines the impact of Kangaroo Mother Care on growth and weight gain among low-birth-weight preterm infants by analysing epidemiological trends, physiological mechanisms, clinical evidence, and public health implications associated with its implementation.