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Transcutaneous Microcirculatory Imaging in Preterm Neonates
06:27

Transcutaneous Microcirculatory Imaging in Preterm Neonates

Published on: December 31, 2015

Growth patterns and their implications for preterm infants in a culture of rapid modernization

Youngmee Ahn1, Min Sohn, Yonghoon Jun

  • 1Inha University, Korea.

Journal of Child Health Care : for Professionals Working with Children in the Hospital and Community
|March 2, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Preterm infants show accelerated growth around 11 months corrected age. Mild preterm infants had smaller measurements, highlighting the impact of cultural childrearing practices on infant development.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Developmental Biology
  • Anthropology

Background:

  • Preterm infant growth is influenced by various factors, including genetics and environment.
  • Cultural norms and childrearing practices can significantly impact infant development.
  • Understanding growth trajectories in preterm infants is crucial for optimal health outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the growth patterns of preterm infants over 12 months corrected age.
  • To examine the influence of cultural factors on preterm infant growth in Korea.
  • To identify potential implications for pediatric nursing in culturally transitioning societies.

Main Methods:

  • Prospective longitudinal study design.
  • Measurement of weight, length, and head circumference in 343 Korean preterm infants.
  • Analysis using generalized estimation equations stratified by prematurity degree (mild, moderate, severe).

Main Results:

  • An early 'catch-up phenomenon' (accelerated growth) was observed around 11 months corrected age.
  • Mild preterm infants exhibited smaller weight, length, and head circumference compared to moderate and severe preterm groups.
  • Cultural preferences for larger infants may influence observed growth patterns.

Conclusions:

  • Preterm infant growth is influenced by both biological and socio-cultural factors.
  • Cultural values and childrearing practices play a significant role in the growth of preterm infants.
  • Pediatric nurses must consider cultural contexts when monitoring preterm infant growth, especially in transitioning societies.

Keywords:
Body weightKorean culturegrowthhead circumferencelengthpremature infantspreterm birth

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