A groundbreaking cohort study led by the University of Rhode Island has shed light on the long-term consequences of premature birth on adult health. The study, titled “Psychological and Physical Health of a Preterm Birth Cohort at Age 35 Years,” was recently published in JAMA Network Open and highlights the importance of understanding the impact of early medical risk factors on adult health outcomes.
Premature birth, affecting approximately one in 10 U.S. infants annually, has seen significant improvements in survival rates over the years. However, adult medical care often overlooks birth history, leaving gaps in understanding the long-term effects of preterm birth. The study aimed to bridge this gap by following a cohort of 213 individuals, including 158 adults born preterm and 55 full-term counterparts, from birth to age 35.
The researchers developed a composite index of cumulative medical risk from birth to age 12, taking into account factors such as birth weight, gestational age, oxygen therapy duration, and overall medical health status. This index was then correlated with adult health outcomes at age 35, including blood pressure, lipid levels, body composition, and psychological function.
The findings revealed a significant association between early life medical risk and adult health outcomes. Individuals with higher medical risk scores showed increased systolic blood pressure, lower HDL cholesterol levels, higher triglycerides, and abdominal fat accumulation. Additionally, psychological issues such as anxiety and depression were more prevalent in those with a history of preterm birth and early medical complications.
Interestingly, no significant associations were found for diastolic blood pressure, LDL cholesterol, hemoglobin A1c, or inflammatory markers. Socioeconomic status and social protection did not significantly impact these outcomes, although higher SES was linked to lower IL-6 levels.
The study underscores the importance of monitoring and providing tailored preventive care for adults born preterm, as they may be at a higher risk for long-term health complications. With the preterm-born population aging, it is crucial for clinicians to consider early life risk factors and provide appropriate care to address the unique needs of this growing segment of the population.
In conclusion, the study contributes valuable insights into the lifelong health consequences of preterm birth and emphasizes the need for continued research and clinical guidelines to support the well-being of individuals born prematurely. This research not only highlights the importance of early intervention but also underscores the significance of understanding the impact of early medical risk factors on adult health outcomes.
This article was written by our author Justin Jackson, edited by Sadie Harley, and fact-checked and reviewed by Robert Egan. We rely on readers like you to support independent science journalism. If you find this reporting valuable, please consider making a donation to help us continue our work. Thank you for supporting science journalism.
For more information, you can access the full study published in JAMA Network Open titled “Psychological and Physical Health of a Preterm Birth Cohort at Age 35 Years” by Amy L. D’Agata et al.
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