Re-evaluation of birth weights at high altitude. Study of babies born to mothers living at an altitude of 3,100 meters

Babies born at altitudes above 2,700 meters have been reported to be below normal birth weight and small for gestational age (SGA). In a study of a specific community (Leadville, Colorado, altitude 3,100 meters) over a period of 14 months (ending November, 1978), 215 newborn infants were found to be appropriate for gestational age (AGA), with the entire group having a mean birth weight (3.16 kilograms) similar to that of newborn infants in Denver, Colorado (3.12 kilograms). This study from a community with a stable population indicates that babies born at high altitude are AGA. The increased morbidity which does occur for these babies is not due to SGA factors.