Preterm infants linked to low IQ as adults: Study - 5 ways to avoid risk of premature births

Preterm infants linked to low IQ as adults: Study - 5 ways to avoid risk of premature births | Photo Credit: Pixabay&nbsp

New Delhi: The adverse long-term and short-term implications of preterm birth on the infant’s health has been widely addressed and known. According to a study published in the journal, JAMA Pediatrics called “Association of Very Preterm Birth or Very Low Birth Weight With Intelligence in Adulthood: An Individual Participant Data Meta-analysis”, adults born with very preterm or with very low birth weight had comparatively lower IQ than those who didn’t. 

According to World Health Organization (WHO), preterm is defined as babies born alive before 37 weeks of pregnancy are completed. There are sub-categories of preterm birth, based on gestational age, that is, extremely preterm (less than 28 weeks), very preterm (28 to 32 weeks), and moderate to late preterm (32 to 37 weeks).

Robert Eves, the first author from the Department of Psychology at the University of Warwick said, "We have found that being born very preterm or at a very low birth weight continues to have a highly significant long term impact on the average IQ as compared to their peers in 7 different countries. The multi-cohort, the international aspect of this research can especially give us confidence in this important finding"

Professor Dieter Wolke, senior author and project lead from the Department of Psychology at the University of Warwick said, "While most born VP/VLBW show cognitive development within the normal range, many may benefit from better tailored early interventions. These may include reducing bronchopulmonary dysplasia and intraventricular haemorrhage in neonatal care and educational interventions of those born into socially disadvantaged families."

Here are some ways in which mothers can prevent the risk of premature births:

1. Ensure taking your medications regularly.
2. Don’t skip any appointment or checkup routine.
3. Consume a healthy and balanced diet.
4. Drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day.
5. Exercise to keep the body active and healthy.

Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purpose only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a dietician before starting any fitness programme or making any changes to your diet.