DRUG-USE OR INADEQUATE PRENATAL-CARE - ADVERSE PREGNANCY OUTCOME IN AN URBAN SETTING

OBJECTIVE: This study analyzed the relationships between illicit drug use, low birth weight, adequacy of prenatal care, and perinatal mortality. STUDY DESIGN: Perinatal outcome parameters in 23,926 deliveries between 1983 and 1990 were analyzed. Statistical analysis (chi-2 analysis) was applied for each year of study to separate the effects of inadequate prenatal care from illicit drug use. RESULTS: Patients with drug use had a two to three times higher incidence of low birth weight and perinatal death. Drug use with more than five prenatal visits had a minimal effect on outcome; drug use with inadequate care was associated with a three times higher incidence of perinatal death and low birth weight. CONCLUSION: Adequacy of prenatal care is a marker of "social chaos" and affects outcome more than drug use itself.