Children who are born prematurely can continue to face health and developmental challenges even into adulthood, according to a new study that will be presented to the European Group of Pediatric Work Physiology in September.
Researchers at the University of Rhode Island have been studying a cohort of preemies for 21 years. As these children have grown into adulthood, with the cohort now 23 years old, researchers are discovering new information about the long-term effects of premature birth.
According to the study, adult preemies are at increased risk of lung and respiratory problems, especially for males and those with an extremely low birth weight.
Pre-term birth can also effect other aspects of physical health, growth and neurological development. Premature children are more likely to develop learning disabilities and need additional help in school.
"These findings are important for parents, nurses in the neo-natal intensive care units, teachers and staff in the schools, disability services offices in colleges and primary care providers," explained lead author Mary C. Sullivan.
"By identifying the issues pre-term babies face in childhood, adolescence and through adulthood, we can all be better prepared to take steps to mitigate their effects."