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[A longitudinal study of growth and development of low birth weight infants]
Insights
Low birth weight infants (LBWI) show significantly reduced growth and development compared to normal birth weight infants, especially in motor skills. Early intervention and proper infant care are crucial for their development.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Neonatology
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- Low birth weight is a significant concern in infant health.
- Understanding the long-term effects on growth and development is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the growth and developmental trajectory of low birth weight infants (LBWI) up to three years of age.
- To compare the physical and developmental outcomes of LBWI with normal birth weight controls.
Main Methods:
- A longitudinal study followed 132 LBWI and 49 controls from birth to three years.
- Regular measurements of weight, length, and head circumference were taken.
- Gesell Development Diagnosis was used to assess developmental abilities.
Main Results:
- LBWI exhibited significantly lower weight, length, and head circumference compared to controls.
- Developmental quotients (DQ) were lower in LBWI, with notable deficits in gross motor skills.
- The study highlights developmental delays in LBWI.
Conclusions:
- Reducing the incidence of low birth weight is essential.
- Scientific guidance on infant care and early training is vital for promoting the growth and development of LBWI.
Abstract:
In order to investigate the growth and development of low birth weight infant (LBWI), 132 low birth weight infants (BW < 2500g) born in 1983 living in Xi Hui district were followed up from birth to three years. And 49 full-term infants with normal birth weight were selected as controls. The weight, length, and head circumference of infants of two groups were measured periodically. Their development abilities were assessed by using Gesell Development Diagnosis. Results showed the weight, length, and head circumference of LBWI were obviously less than that of the controls. The developmental quotient (DQ) of LBWI were lower that that of controls, particularly in gross motor field, Therefore, it is important to reduce the rate of IBWI and to give scientific guidance on child care and early training for promoting growth and development of infants.