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Birth weight rather than birth length is associated with childhood behavioural problems in a Czech ELSPAC cohort

Lucie Ráčková1, Daniela Kuruczová1, Jiří Jarkovský1

  • 1Research Centre for Toxic Compounds in the Environment (RECETOX), Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic.

Plos One
|July 29, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Normal birth weight, not length, is linked to childhood behavioral issues. Lower-normal birth weight in children may increase risks for difficulties, hyperactivity, and peer problems, suggesting targeted prenatal interventions.

Area of Science:

  • Developmental Psychology
  • Pediatric Health
  • Behavioral Science

Background:

  • Prenatal development significantly influences physical and psychological traits.
  • Previous research links low birth parameters to behavioral problems, impacting life outcomes.
  • The association between normal birth growth ranges and behavioral issues remains under-explored.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the relationship between normal-range birth length and weight and behavioral problems at age seven.
  • To examine these associations within the context of the Czech Republic's economic transition using the ELSPAC cohort.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized data from 1,796 children in the Czech part of the European Longitudinal Study of Pregnancy and Childhood (ELSPAC).
  • Assessed childhood behavioral problems using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire.
  • Employed weighted logistic regression to model associations between birth parameters and behavioral outcomes.

Main Results:

  • Normal-range birth weight showed a significant association with the total difficulties score.
  • Birth weight was also linked to hyperactivity and peer relationship problems subscales.
  • Birth length was not significantly associated with any behavioral subscales in the fully adjusted model.

Conclusions:

  • Normal-range birth weight is associated with increased odds of behavioral problems in children.
  • Preventive programs targeting pregnant women and children with lower, but normal, birth weight may mitigate behavioral issues.
  • Findings highlight the importance of monitoring and supporting even within-normal-range birth parameters for long-term child development.

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