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Published on: November 20, 2015
Impact of Genetic potential and prematurity on growth outcomes
L L Lindeke1, C D Shell, M M Mills
1School of Nursing, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA. linde001@tc.umn.edu
Insights
Children born prematurely often achieve normal growth by school age, with maternal height being a key predictor. Close monitoring of growth is recommended for children born prematurely.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Growth and Development
- Neonatal Follow-up
- Genetics and Growth
Background:
- Premature birth can impact childhood growth trajectories.
- Understanding factors influencing catch-up growth is crucial for long-term outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between genetic potential and catch-up growth in school-aged children born prematurely.
- To assess growth and body composition in relation to birthweight categories.
Main Methods:
- Descriptive correlational study of 45 children born prematurely, categorized by birthweight (low, very low, extremely low).
- Comparison of height and weight to normal birthweight norms.
- Correlation of school-age growth and parental heights.
Main Results:
- All birthweight groups achieved growth within normal ranges by school age.
- Extremely low birthweight group showed growth in the lower end of the normal range.
- Maternal height was the strongest predictor of children's height at 8-10 years.
Conclusions:
- Many children overcome adverse effects of prematurity on growth.
- Close monitoring of growth using appropriate grids and prematurity correction is essential.
- Reassurance for parents and providers regarding catch-up growth potential.
Purpose:
To explore the relationship between genetic potential and catch-up growth in school-age children who were born prematurely.
Study Design And Method:
This descriptive correlational study compared three groups of children who were born prematurely, sorted by birthweight groups into low, very low, and extremely low birthweight on measures of catch-up growth and body composition at school age (n = 45). Height and weight were compared to established norms for children of normal birthweight. Growth at school age and parental heights were also correlated.
Results:
Children in all birthweight groups achieved growth within normal ranges (two standard deviations from the mean) by school age. The growth of the extremely low birthweight group was in the lower range of normal. Maternal height was the best predictor of children's heights at 8 to 10 years of age.
Clinical Implications:
Parents and providers can be reassured that many children overcome the adverse effects of prematurity on childhood growth. Throughout childhood, growth should be closely monitored using appropriate grids, and correcting for prematurity.
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