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Preterm delivery as a predictor of diurnal cortisol profiles in adulthood: evidence from Cebu, Philippines

James Lee1, Ruby Fried, Zaneta Thayer

  • 1Department of Anthropology, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, 60208.

American Journal of Human Biology : the Official Journal of the Human Biology Council
|June 6, 2014
PubMed

Insights

Born preterm may alter adult hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis function, particularly in males. Preterm birth impacts diurnal cortisol profiles, showing sex-specific long-term health effects.

Area of Science:

  • Endocrinology
  • Developmental Biology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Fetal exposure to high maternal cortisol can permanently alter the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis.
  • Maternal cortisol levels are elevated in preterm deliveries, posing potential long-term health risks.
  • The long-term effects of prematurity on adult HPA axis function are not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the hypothesis that diurnal cortisol profiles in young adulthood differ based on preterm birth status.
  • To examine the long-term impact of prematurity on HPA axis regulation in adulthood.

Main Methods:

  • Measured diurnal salivary cortisol profiles in 1,403 young adults (ages 21-23).
  • Utilized data from the Cebu Longitudinal Health and Nutrition Survey in the Philippines.
  • Analyzed cortisol levels as a marker of HPA-axis function.

Main Results:

  • Males born preterm showed lower morning cortisol and a flatter diurnal decline compared to those born full-term.
  • No significant differences in cortisol levels were observed between preterm and full-term females.
  • Findings suggest sex-specific long-term effects of preterm birth on HPA axis regulation.

Conclusions:

  • Preterm birth may have lasting effects on adult HPA axis function, particularly in males.
  • Results highlight sex differences in the biological impacts of prenatal stress exposure.
  • Further research is needed to understand the full health implications of prematurity.
Abstract

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