A non-handicapped cohort of low-birthweight children: growth and general health status at 11 years of age

Abstract

Aims: To describe and compare physical growth, current health status, functional limitations and neurodevelopmental impairments (defined as low IQ, school problems or psychiatric disorder) at 11 y of age in a population of non-handicapped low-birthweight (LBW) children with that of normal-birthweight (NBW) children.

Methods: A population-based sample of 130 LBW children (weighing less than 2000 g at birth) without major handicaps, and a random sample of 131 NBW children born at term. Somatic and mental health and cognitive abilities were assessed through questionnaires to parents, a physical examination, standardized tests of cognitive function (WISC-R) and a semi-structured interview (Children Assessment Schedule).

Results: General somatic health status was similar for the LBW and NBW children. The LBW children were shorter (mean difference -2.5 cm; 95% CI -0.9 to -4.2) and had a smaller head circumference (mean difference -0.8 cm; 95% CI -0.4 to -1.1) but similar weights and body mass indices. Differences and similarities in anthropometric measures were the same at 5 and 11 y of age. The LBW children had higher systolic (mean difference 3.2 mmHg; 95% CI -0.6 to -0.3) but similar diastolic blood pressure. A higher proportion of LBW children had decreased visual acuity and hearing impairment. Forty per cent of LBW children had neurodevelopmental impairments, compared to 20% of NBW children (OR 2.6; 95% CI 1.5 to 4.5).

Conclusion: At 11 y of age, survivors of moderately low birthweight without major handicaps may have generally good health, but are at risk of neurodevelopmental impairments.