Children Born ‘Very Prematurely’ More Prone to Lower Incomes, Chronic Health Problems, Study Says

Premature babies who were born at low weights and very prematurely are more prone to having lower incomes and more chronic health conditions compared to those with normal birth weights. The findings were based on a study published in JAMA Pediatrics.

The premature babies who weighed less than the normal rated were also found to be less likely in relationships or have children, and to have higher levels of unemployment. Another trait that was observed more often among the prematurely-born participants compared to the control group is a lower self esteem. However, they were found to be less prone from alcohol or drug problems when they have already reached adulthood, Perf Science reported.

The study of premature babies was conducted by a research team from the McMaster University in Ontario, Canada that applies only to extremely low birth weight babies, who were born weighing under 1kg or 2lbs, 3oz, after the development of modern neonatal intensive care techniques. The team, which was headed by Professor Saroj Saigal, published the study as the first group of these participants arrive at their 40s.

According to the authors, several differences that were seen in both groups can be due to the neurological impairments experienced by the extremely premature children, such as blindness and cerebral palsy.  Aside from this, differences in personality may also be a factor.

With today's very competitive job market, those who were born at the normal weight could also be affected. However, Saigal said that past research has indicated that the number of the extremely low birth weight group is less assertive, more shy, less outgoing and has more mental health issues like depression and anxiety, which means a whole lot of things can be causing this.  

The authors of the study of premature babies plan to follow the participants into their 40s and 50s and find out if other problems will appear as they grow older. Saigal said that they want to be sure that the study participants get the support they need and to monitor them as well through the course of their life, according to CBS News,