Children born moderately early are at an increased risk of developmental disorders, meta-analysis finds

According to a recent meta-analysis, children born moderately early, between 32 and 36 weeks of gestation, are at an increased risk of developing developmental disorders compared to full-term infants.

The study, which analyzed data from multiple research studies involving thousands of children, found that these children were more likely to experience a range of developmental issues, including cognitive delays, language impairments, and behavioral problems.

While preterm infants born before 32 weeks have long been known to be at higher risk for developmental disorders, this meta-analysis sheds light on the vulnerability of children born moderately early.

Researchers believe that the increased risk may be due to the fact that these infants have not fully completed their development in the womb. The last few weeks of gestation are crucial for the maturation of various organ systems, including the brain.

It is important for healthcare professionals and parents to be aware of these findings and to closely monitor the development of children born moderately early. Early intervention and support can make a significant difference in mitigating the potential long-term effects of developmental disorders.

Further research is needed to better understand the underlying mechanisms and to develop targeted interventions for this specific population.

Source: Journal of Pediatrics, Meta-analysis on Developmental Disorders in Moderately Preterm Infants, 2021