Which factor is linked to low birth weight in newborns?

Inadequate prenatal care is indeed a significant factor linked to low birth weight in newborns. When a pregnant individual does not receive adequate prenatal care, there is an increased risk of several health issues that can adversely affect fetal growth and development. Prenatal care provides essential screenings, education, and interventions to manage potential complications, monitor the health of both the mother and fetus, and ensure that nutritional and lifestyle modifications can be made to support healthy pregnancy outcomes.

Without proper prenatal care, issues such as gestational diabetes, hypertension, or inadequate nutrition may go unaddressed, which can lead to low birth weight. This is critical because low birth weight is associated with increased risks for various health problems in infants, including developmental delays and chronic health issues later in life.

The other factors listed, such as high maternal education levels and regular exercise during pregnancy, are generally associated with better pregnancy outcomes and are not directly linked to low birth weight. Increased maternal age can have nuanced effects, including risks of certain complications, but when considering direct causes of low birth weight, inadequate prenatal care is a leading contributor.