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Published on: August 25, 2014
Neurodevelopmental, functional and growth status of term low birth weight infants at eighteen months
1Department of Pediatrics, Maulana Azad Medical College and Associated Lok Nayak Hospital, New Delhi 110 002, India.
Insights
Term infants with low birth weight (LBW) show disadvantages in growth and mental development by 18 months. Neonatal complications and socioeconomic factors impact neurodevelopmental outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Neurodevelopmental Pediatrics
- Public Health
Background:
- Low birth weight (LBW) is a significant global health concern.
- Assessing long-term neurodevelopmental and growth outcomes in LBW infants is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate neurodevelopmental, functional, and growth status of term infants weighing 2000 g or less at 18 months.
- To identify medical and social factors linked to adverse outcomes in LBW infants.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 50 LBW term infants and 30 controls were assessed at 18 months.
- Evaluations included growth, audio-visual, neurological impairment, and motor/mental development using the Indian modification of Bayley Scales.
- Detailed medical and social history was collected.
Main Results:
- LBW infants had significantly lower mean Mental Development Quotient (91.51 vs. 102.02) compared to controls.
- LBW infants showed significant lag in weight, length, and head circumference.
- Neonatal complications correlated with abnormal motor outcomes; lower socioeconomic status and maternal education linked to adverse mental status.
Conclusions:
- Term LBW infants face significant disadvantages in growth and mental development at 18 months.
- Early identification and intervention are vital for improving outcomes in this vulnerable population.
Abstract:
This study was done to evaluate the neurodevelopmental, functional and growth status of term infants weighing 2000 g or less at 18 months, and to analyze major medical and social factors associated with an adverse neurodevelopmental and/or functional outcome. All infants were assessed for growth, audio-visual, neurological impairment, and motor and mental development using Indian modification of Bayley Scales of infant development. A detailed history was also taken. Term infants with birth weight of >2500 g without any antenatal or neonatal complications served as controls. Fifty low birth weight (LBW) term infants and 30 controls were evaluated. The mean mental development Quotient for LBW infants [91.51(16.97)] was significantly lower than that of Controls [102.02(8.4)]; the mean motor development Quotient however was comparable. The LBW infants were significantly lagging in terms of weight, length and head circumference at assessment. Neonatal complications were associated with an abnormal motor outcome while lower Socio-economic status and maternal education were related to adverse mental status. We concluded that Term LBW infants are at a significant disadvantage in terms of growth and mental scores at 18 months.
