Short- and Long-Term Outcomes Associated with Large for Gestational Age Birth Weight

Abstract

Large for gestational age birth weight is associated with adverse short- and long-term outcomes. Infants born with large for gestational age birth weight are at increased risk for neonatal intensive care unit admission, respiratory distress, neonatal metabolic abnormalities including hypoglycemia, birth trauma, and even stillbirth or neonatal death. The risk for many of these complications increases with higher birth weights. Individuals with large for gestational age birth weight also appear to be at subsequent increased risk for overweight/obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and even some childhood cancers. These data highlight the need for effective interventions to decrease risk across the lifespan.

Keywords: Birth trauma; Cardiovascular disease; Diabetes; Hypoglycemia; Large for gestational age birth weight; Macrosomia; Obesity; Shoulder dystocia.