Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 6, 2025
Modeling Encephalopathy of Prematurity Using Prenatal Hypoxia-ischemia with Intra-amniotic Lipopolysaccharide in Rats
Published on: November 20, 2015
Short- and Long-Term Outcomes Associated with Large for Gestational Age Birth Weight
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Indiana University School of Medicine, 550 N. University Boulevard, UH 2440, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA.
Insights
Large for gestational age birth weight increases risks for newborns and adults. Effective interventions are needed to reduce these adverse health outcomes throughout life.
Area of Science:
- Perinatal Medicine
- Neonatology
- Public Health
Background:
- Large for gestational age (LGA) birth weight is linked to significant health issues.
- Complications range from neonatal problems to long-term chronic diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the adverse outcomes associated with LGA birth weight.
- To emphasize the need for interventions to mitigate risks.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of existing data on LGA birth weight outcomes.
- Analysis of short-term neonatal and long-term adult health risks.
Main Results:
- LGA infants face higher risks of NICU admission, respiratory distress, hypoglycemia, birth trauma, and mortality.
- Increased birth weight correlates with greater complication severity.
- Adults born LGA show elevated risks for obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers.
Conclusions:
- LGA birth weight presents a spectrum of adverse health consequences.
- Interventions targeting LGA pregnancies and offspring are crucial for lifelong health improvement.
Abstract:
Large for gestational age birth weight is associated with adverse short- and long-term outcomes. Infants born with large for gestational age birth weight are at increased risk for neonatal intensive care unit admission, respiratory distress, neonatal metabolic abnormalities including hypoglycemia, birth trauma, and even stillbirth or neonatal death. The risk for many of these complications increases with higher birth weights. Individuals with large for gestational age birth weight also appear to be at subsequent increased risk for overweight/obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and even some childhood cancers. These data highlight the need for effective interventions to decrease risk across the lifespan.
Related Concept Videos
01:20Pathophysiology of Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is characterized by autoimmune-mediated destruction of pancreatic β cells, with environmental factors potentially triggering this process in genetically susceptible individuals. Despite many not having a family history, certain genes increase susceptibility,...
01:22Diabetes Mellitus: Type 2 and Gestational
01:07Teratogenicity
02:20Longitudinal Research
01:11Guidelines for Writing Outcome
Patient outcomes reflect the patient's response to the goal rather than what the nurse aims to achieve. Terminology should be observable and measurable to avoid the reader's interpretation. The desired outcome should be realistic and achievable in the designated care timeframe. Expected outcomes should align with adjunctive therapies. The outcome should enhance care...
01:26Longitudinal Studies