Longitudinal evaluation of airway function 21 years after preterm birth

Area of Science:

• Pulmonary Medicine
• Neonatology
• Pediatric Pulmonology

Background:

• Longitudinal data on respiratory health after preterm birth into adulthood are scarce.
• Preterm birth is associated with increased respiratory morbidity in childhood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To track respiratory symptoms, spirometry, and airway hyperresponsiveness in ex-preterm individuals from childhood to adulthood.
• To assess the long-term respiratory outcomes of preterm birth survivors.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of ex-preterm subjects (born at median 31.5 weeks gestation) and healthy term controls were followed longitudinally.
• Respiratory symptoms, spirometry (FEV1, FEV6, FVC), and methacholine challenge tests were performed in adulthood (median age 21.7 years).

Main Results:

• Ex-preterm adults reported significantly more respiratory symptoms (16% vs 4%) compared to controls.
• No significant differences were observed in spirometry measures (FEV1, FEV6, FVC) between ex-preterm and control groups.
• Airway hyperresponsiveness was similar between ex-preterm adults (23%) and term controls (19%).

Conclusions:

• Excess respiratory symptoms persist 21 years after preterm birth.
• Despite persistent symptoms, ex-preterm adults do not exhibit persistent airway obstruction or hyperresponsiveness.
• These findings suggest a generally favorable long-term respiratory outlook for preterm survivors regarding lung function.