Article

The aim of this study was to assess a cohort of children with very
low birth weight (VLBW) with premature history at the age of 5 yrs for the
proportion of deficits in growth, motor, cognitive, and adaptive functions and to
compare them with children with normal birth weight (>2500 g) in these areas.
DESIGN: : This is a descriptive, exploratory study using a convenience sample. A
cohort of 160 children with VLBW and 124 children with normal birth weight were
examined. Standardized clinical and neuropsychologic assessments were
administered. Correlation and multiple comparison procedures were used to analyze
the relationships among all continuous outcome variables. RESULTS: : There is a
significant difference in overall performance between the VLBW children and
children with normal birth weight. Deficits in motor, cognitive, visual
perception, visual-motor, and adaptive functions were more prominent when we
further examined the VLBW children with motor problems. CONCLUSIONS: : The VLBW
children performed more poorly at age 5 yrs than did their counterparts. This
validates the need for early screening and regular follow-up of VLBW preterm
children, particularly those who have motor problems.

Langue : ANGLAIS