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Published on: November 20, 2015
Meta-analysis of the association between preterm delivery and intelligence
C O Kerr-Wilson1, D F Mackay, G C S Smith
1Centre for Population Health Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8RZ, UK.
Journal of Public Health (Oxford, England)
|March 12, 2011
Summary
Children born preterm have lower IQ scores, with a dose-response relationship evident with gestational age. This systematic review highlights the long-term cognitive sequelae of preterm birth.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Pediatrics
- Public Health
Background:
- Increasing preterm birth rates necessitate understanding long-term health outcomes.
- Improved survival rates for preterm infants underscore the importance of studying their sequelae.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and meta-analyze the association between preterm birth and IQ.
- To investigate changes in this association over time and explore dose-response relationships.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review and random-effects meta-analysis of studies from 1980-2009.
- Examination of small-study bias using funnel plots and Egger's test.
- Meta-regression and cumulative meta-analysis to assess heterogeneity and temporal trends.
Main Results:
- 27 studies (7044 individuals) showed preterm birth associated with an 11.94-point lower IQ.
- No significant small-study bias detected; moderate heterogeneity present.
- A significant linear dose-response relationship observed between gestational age and IQ.
Conclusions:
- Strong evidence links preterm delivery to reduced IQ.
- A clear dose-response relationship exists between gestational age and cognitive outcomes.
- Preterm birth poses a significant public health concern regarding long-term cognitive development.
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