Low birthweight babies grow older, but there could be many problems

An increasing number of low birthweight babies are surviving into their teen years and beyond, but with lifelong problems- including physical, intellectual and behavior difficulties. In the past, the indicators and measures used to evaluate health outcome have been selected from the perspective of the health care provider. There have been considerable skepticism as to the ability of parents to provide data about the development of their children. But practitioners often must rely upon the parent/guardian of children (particularly children with developmental and /or emotional disabilities) for significant input. This input is essential, but should be considered within the context of raising a child with special health care needs.