Developmental outcomes in very low birth weight infants: a six-year study

Advances in neonatal care have led to survival of more Very Low Birth Weight (VLBW) infants weighing < 1,500 grams with growing concerns about neuro-developmental outcomes. To identify relationships between outcomes and birth weight, we evaluated 213 VLBW infants over a six-year period using a standardized test to identify relationships between outcomes and birth weight, and participation in early intervention programs at a one-year follow-up. Average Mental Development Indices were obtained for the majority of infants across all birth weight categories with the smallest group (500-750 grams) scoring significantly lower than infants in all other categories. Infants who did not participate in early intervention scored better which suggests this group was healthier and less likely to need intervention services. Further clarification of the salient components of early intervention is recommended in future studies.