Is very preterm birth a risk factor for adult cardiometabolic disease?

Area of Science:

• Neonatal care
• Cardiometabolic health
• Public health

Background:

• Modern neonatal care has advanced significantly, with the first cohort now reaching their thirties.
• Previous cohorts born preterm before modern care show increased risks for type 2 diabetes.
• Emerging evidence indicates elevated cardiovascular disease risk factors in young adults born very preterm or small.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the evidence for cardiometabolic disease risk in adults born very small or very preterm.
• To inform public health strategies for this population.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing cohort data on individuals born preterm or small.
• Analysis of cardiometabolic risk factors including blood pressure, body composition, glucose regulation, and lipid profiles.
• Assessment of lifestyle factors such as physical activity and dietary intake.

Main Results:

• Adults born very preterm or small exhibit higher blood pressure, lower lean body mass, impaired glucose regulation, and potentially atherogenic lipid profiles.
• Reduced non-conditioning physical activity and lower intake of fruits and milk products are observed in this population.
• These factors collectively increase the risk for later cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.

Conclusions:

• Individuals born very preterm or small are at increased risk for cardiometabolic diseases throughout their lifespan.
• Interventions focused on reducing blood pressure and increasing physical activity hold significant potential for mitigating long-term disease burden.
• Further expert evaluation is warranted due to the public health implications for this growing population.