Growth and development in premature twins

Area of Science:

• Neonatology
• Pediatric Growth and Development
• Twin Studies

Background:

• Preterm birth (<32 weeks gestation) poses risks to infant development.
• Comparing outcomes for twins and singletons born preterm is crucial for understanding developmental trajectories.
• Previous research has not fully elucidated the long-term growth and neurodevelopmental differences between preterm twins and singletons.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the long-term growth and neurodevelopmental outcomes of twins and singletons born before 32 weeks' gestation.
• To identify potential disadvantages associated with being a twin in a preterm population.
• To assess differences in growth and development between first and second-born twins.

Main Methods:

• A cohort study of 476 infants (386 singletons, 90 twins) born before 32 weeks' gestation.
• Assessment of neurodevelopmental status and anthropometric measurements (height, skinfolds) at 18 months corrected age.
• Statistical adjustment for confounding social, obstetric, and neonatal factors.

Main Results:

• At 18 months, preterm twins exhibited comparable neurodevelopmental status to singletons.
• Preterm twins were, on average, 1.6 cm shorter than singletons.
• Preterm twins had significantly thicker triceps and subscapular skinfolds compared to singletons.
• No significant differences in growth or development were observed between first and second-born twins.

Conclusions:

• While preterm twins may experience a disadvantage in linear growth, twinning itself does not appear to be a risk factor for neurodevelopmental outcomes in preterm infants.
• The findings suggest that targeted interventions for linear growth may be beneficial for preterm twins.
• Twinning should not be considered a primary risk factor for adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes in this population.