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Effects of being born small for gestational age on long-term intellectual performance

Ester Maria Lundgren1, Torsten Tuvemo

  • 1Department of women's and children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala University Hospital, SE-751 85 Uppsala, Sweden. maria.lundgren@kbh.uu.se

Best Practice & Research. Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism
|June 10, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Being born small for gestational age (SGA) is linked to lower intelligence and behavioral issues. Breastfeeding for over six months may improve intellectual development in these children.

Area of Science:

  • Developmental Pediatrics
  • Neuroscience
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Birth size is a known risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
  • Emerging evidence links being born small for gestational age (SGA) to cognitive and behavioral challenges.
  • Severe neurological impairments are rare in term SGA infants, but non-severe dysfunction may be more common.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the association between being born small for gestational age (SGA) and intellectual development.
  • To explore potential interventions to mitigate negative cognitive outcomes in SGA individuals.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies assessing intellectual performance in SGA individuals.
  • Analysis of factors influencing cognitive outcomes, including feeding practices and medical treatments.

Main Results:

  • Individuals born small for gestational age (SGA) show increased risks for lower intelligence, poor academic performance, and behavioral problems.
  • Breastfeeding for over six months may positively impact intellectual development in SGA infants.
  • Nutrient-enriched formula does not offer cognitive benefits and may increase overweight risk; growth hormone treatment might influence IQ.

Conclusions:

  • Being born small for gestational age (SGA) is associated with a higher risk of suboptimal intellectual and behavioral outcomes.
  • Early life interventions, particularly prolonged breastfeeding, may be crucial for enhancing cognitive development in SGA children.

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