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Assessment and Evaluation of the High Risk Neonate: The NICU Network Neurobehavioral Scale
19:15

Assessment and Evaluation of the High Risk Neonate: The NICU Network Neurobehavioral Scale

Published on: August 25, 2014

Cognitive and behavioral status of low birth weight preterm children raised in a developing country at preschool age

Júlia L do Espírito Santo1, Mirna W Portuguez, Magda L Nunes

  • 1Divison of Neurology, Hospital São Lucas, Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.

Jornal De Pediatria
|January 13, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Preterm and low birth weight children in developing countries show higher rates of cognitive and behavioral issues by preschool age. These findings highlight the need for early intervention and support for vulnerable children.

Area of Science:

  • Developmental Pediatrics
  • Neuropsychology
  • Global Health

Background:

  • Preterm birth and low birth weight are significant risk factors for adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes.
  • Children in developing countries often face additional challenges impacting development.
  • Early assessment is crucial for identifying and addressing developmental delays.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the cognitive and behavioral development of preterm and low birth weight children at preschool age.
  • To identify specific areas of developmental vulnerability in this population.
  • To explore the relationship between birth characteristics and developmental outcomes in a developing country context.

Main Methods:

  • Prospective cross-sectional study involving 80 preterm and low birth weight neonates from Brazil.
  • Neuropsychological assessments at 4-5 years included Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence (WPPSI) and Conners' Parent Rating Scale-Revised.
  • Denver test, neurological examination, and review of perinatal data were utilized.

Main Results:

  • Children exhibited lower average IQ scores, particularly in visual-motor coordination and reasoning speed.
  • Significant percentages showed abnormal results in arithmetic (32.5%) and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) behaviors (48%).
  • Lower scores on developmental scales and abnormal neurological exams were associated with lower IQ and ADHD.

Conclusions:

  • Preterm and low birth weight children raised in developing countries demonstrate an elevated incidence of cognitive and behavioral disorders.
  • These findings underscore the long-term impact of prematurity and low birth weight on child development.
  • Targeted interventions are necessary to mitigate these developmental challenges.
Abstract

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