Body composition and motor function in children born large for gestational age at term

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Endocrinology
• Developmental Pediatrics
• Biokinesiology

Background:

• Large for gestational age (LGA) birth is associated with altered childhood development.
• Understanding the impact of LGA on body composition and motor function is crucial for early intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare body composition and motor function in term-born children who were large for gestational age (LGA) versus appropriate for gestational age (AGA).
• To investigate associations between gait quality and factors including LGA status, fat mass, and motor function.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional study comparing LGA (n=23) and AGA (n=147) children aged 6-12 years.
• Body composition assessed via bioelectrical impedance; motor function via one-leg standing, timed up-and-go, five times sit-to-stand, and 3D gait analysis.
• Multiple regression analysis examined the gait deviation index in relation to LGA status, fat mass index, and motor functions.

Main Results:

• LGA children exhibited a significantly higher fat mass index (2.9 vs. 2.2, p=0.006) and a lower gait deviation index (91.4 vs. 95.4, p=0.011) compared to AGA children.
• Gait deviation index was significantly associated with LGA birth status and fat mass index in regression analyses.
• No significant differences were found in balance or muscle strength between the groups.

Conclusions:

• School-aged children born LGA demonstrate distinct body composition and gait characteristics.
• Increased fat mass and reduced gait quality in LGA children warrant monitoring to mitigate risks.
• Early identification and management of these factors may help prevent metabolic syndrome and gait impairments.