Neurodevelopment and Associated Factors in Preterm Infants Who Received Kangaroo Mother Care: A 12-Month Follow-Up

Area of Science:

• Neonatal care
• Developmental pediatrics
• Maternal-infant health

Background:

• Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) is vital for preterm infant well-being.
• Understanding neurodevelopmental predictors in KMC infants is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify factors predicting neurodevelopment up to 12 months corrected age in infants receiving KMC.
• To investigate the influence of maternal and infant factors on developmental outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Study included 91 preterm infants and 78 mothers.
• Data collected on maternal symptoms, KMC compliance, infant characteristics, and development.
• Griffith Mental Development Scales used for assessment.

Main Results:

• Breast milk intake was associated with significantly better outcomes across multiple developmental domains compared to formula or mixed feeding.
• Increased duration of daily skin-to-skin contact (SSC) showed a negative association with developmental outcomes.
• The negative impact of SSC duration was moderated by the severity of maternal depressive symptoms.

Conclusions:

• Promoting breastfeeding is essential for positive neurodevelopment in preterm infants undergoing KMC.
• Addressing and treating maternal depression is a key factor in supporting infant neurodevelopment within the KMC context.