Perceived risk of preterm and low-birthweight birth in the Central Pennsylvania Women's Health Study. Journal   American journal of obstetrics and gynecology. Citation   Am J Obstet Gynecol. 199(1):64.e1-7 Publication date   2008 Jul Authors   Chuang CH Green MJ Chase GA Dyer AM Ural SH Weisman CS Investigators   Cynthia H Chuang Michael J. Green Carol S. Weisman Grants   United States NICHD K23HD051634 MeSH headings   Health Behavior Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice Health Status Infant, Low Birth Weight Obstetric Labor, Premature MeSH qualifiers   epidemiology Abstract   OBJECTIVE: Engaging women in preconception prevention may be challenging if at-risk women do not perceive increased risk. This study examined predictors of perceiving increased risk for preterm/low birthweight birth. STUDY DESIGN: Using the Central Pennsylvania Women's Health Study, a population-based sample of reproductive-age women, we analyzed whether sociodemographics, health and pregnancy history, health behaviors, attitudes, or health care utilization predicted risk perception of preterm/low-birthweight birth. RESULTS: Of the 645 women analyzed, 157 (24%) estimated their risk of preterm/low-birthweight birth to be very or somewhat likely. Higher perceived risk was associated with being underweight, previous preterm/low-birthweight birth, having a mother with previous preterm/low-birthweight birth, lower perceived severity of preterm/low birthweight, and smoking. CONCLUSIONS: Several factors known to predict preterm/low birthweight did influence risk perception in this study, whereas others did not. Further research on how these factors have an impact on participation in preconception care programs is warranted.