Did you know the definition of prematurity is more than just “a baby born early”? Prematurity is used to describe a birth that occurs before 37 weeks gestational age and the immaturity of body systems. Which means a baby can be born on their due date or after, and still be considered a premature birth. How much do we really know about prematurity?
In 2016, it was estimated there were approximately 4 million live births in the US, and of these, 400,000 were preterm (<37 weeks gestation), 320,000 were low birth weight (<5 lbs.), and 40,000% were very low birth weight (<3 lbs.). Prematurity increases risks for neurological complications. There are different risk factors that attribute to premature births, including maternal history of previous preterm birth, multiple birth pregnancies, maternal age (younger than 16 or older than 35), maternal health problems (diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, stress, etc.), uterus abnormalities, low socioeconomic status, and lack of prenatal care. Every additional gram of weight and increased gestational age, decreases the risk for long term impairment. Although medical advances have improved, the rate of neurodevelopmental disability has stayed relatively the same. Impairments can include low intelligence/achievement scores, attention/concentration problems, slower processing speed, spared verbal abilities, slower memory/ delayed recall, sensorimotor deficits, etc. So, what should we consider when treating and understanding prematurity?
Since 2000, survival rates have increased for premature births. Through inpatient hospitalization, premature infants are monitored through advanced, intensive, integrated care. Early intervention services from speech language pathologists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, and neuropsychologists are highly recommended for this population. Different cognitive rehabilitation strategies can aid processing through repeated assessment, in addition to neuroimaging, to monitor development over time and modify a plan that fits best for the patient to grow and exceed in their development.
If you are concerned about your child that may have been diagnosed as premature, please do not hesitate to contact our office here at NRS|LS.
Reference:
Connery, A.K, Larson, J.C.G. (2020). Prematurity. Clinical Neuropsychology Study Guide and Board Review. 299-307.