Effect of Perinatal and Maternal Factors on Blood Pressure and Adiposity at Age 3

The specific aim of the project was to evaluate the relationship between perinatal and maternal factors on childhood blood pressure (BP) and adiposity outcomes at Age 3. A retrospective case-control study of 128 children and their mothers enrolled in the Generations Project was completed to examine the association between different perinatal and maternal factors on childhood BP and adiposity outcomes at Age 3. The Generations Project of the Northwell Health System is a longitudinal, observational, population-based study following infants and their biological mothers. Using multivariable regression analysis, cesarean delivery (β = 0.07, CI = 0.04-0.10, p < 0.001) and small for gestational age (β = 0.07, CI = 0.002-0.13, p = 0.04) were individually associated with greater systolic blood pressure index during childhood. In adjusted regression analysis, IVF was associated with greater odds of elevated BP status (OR = 3.52, CI = 1.04-12.0, p = 0.04). Additionally, low birth weight (β = -0.86, CI = -1.64 to -0.08, p = 0.03) was associated with lower childhood body mass index Z-scores. It can be concluded that adverse perinatal and maternal conditions can create a suboptimal intrauterine environment that is ideal for immediate survival but can alter the trajectory of the developing fetus and lead to negative health consequences. This study builds upon the existing research examining the effect different perinatal and maternal conditions have on childhood health and expands on the limited research investigating the potential impact cesarean delivery and in vitro fertilization have on offspring BP and adiposity.