The Prevalence of Low Birth Weight (LBW) in Marginalized Roma Populations: A Quantitative Analysis in Three Segregated Settlements of Szabolcs‐Szatmár‐Bereg County

Background/Objectives: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of low birth weight (LBW) among Roma women living in segregated settlements in Hungary and to identify key social and behavioral risk factors, with a focus on health behaviours and access to antenatal care. Methods: A cross‐sectional quantitative study was conducted using a structured 297‐item questionnaire. Data collection took place through face‐to‐face interviews in the participants’ home environment. The questionnaire explored sociodemographic, behavioural, and prenatal risk factors. In total, 231 marginalized Roma women participated. Data were analysed using SPSS 25.0, including chi‐square tests and binary logistic regression. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: The prevalence of LBW was 13.4%. Statistically significant associations were found between LBW and smoking (p = 0.001; Cramerʹs V = 0.253), alcohol consumption (p = 0.011), lack of antenatal care (p = 0.023), and vaginal infections (p = 0.008). Smoking emerged as the strongest independent predictor, tripling the risk of LBW. No significant associations were found for vitamin intake or drug use, though both appeared as possible contributing factors. Conclusions: Roma women in segregated settlements face a significantly elevated risk of LBW due to modifiable behavioural and structural factors. These findings highlight the urgent need for culturally adapted, community‐based interventions targeting smoking cessation, increased prenatal awareness, and improved access to antenatal care among marginalized populations.