Understanding Cognitive Abilities and Wealth Outcomes in Very Preterm Adults
This study, authored by Jaekel et al. (2019), examines the relationship between being born very preterm (VP) or with very low birth weight (VLBW), cognitive abilities, and wealth accumulation in adulthood. By tracking participants from birth to 26 years of age, the research provides key insights into how early cognitive abilities influence long-term economic outcomes.
Background
The study focused on a cohort of 193 VP/VLBW individuals and 217 healthy term-born individuals in Bavaria, Germany. Cognitive and mathematical abilities were assessed at the age of eight, and wealth data was collected at age 26. This longitudinal approach allowed researchers to investigate the direct and indirect effects of birth-related risks on adult wealth.
Key Insights
- Cognitive and Mathematical Differences: VP/VLBW participants demonstrated lower general cognitive and mathematical abilities compared to their healthy term-born counterparts.
- Adult Wealth Outcomes: By age 26, VP/VLBW individuals had accumulated significantly less wealth than their term-born peers.
- Impact of General Cognitive Abilities: Structural equation modeling revealed that general cognitive abilities, rather than mathematical skills, were the stronger predictor of wealth accumulation in adulthood.
Significance
The findings highlight the importance of supporting general cognitive development in children born VP/VLBW. By focusing interventions on overall cognitive abilities rather than solely on specific skills like mathematics, healthcare and educational systems can better address the long-term challenges faced by individuals at high neonatal risk. This approach could lead to improved socioeconomic outcomes and reduced disparities.
Future Directions
Future research could explore the specific mechanisms linking general cognitive abilities to wealth accumulation and identify ways to enhance early cognitive development. Studies that include more diverse populations and consider additional socioeconomic factors would also help strengthen the generalizability of these findings.
Conclusion
This research underscores the significant role of general cognitive abilities in shaping long-term economic outcomes for individuals born VP/VLBW. By addressing the challenges these individuals face early in life, targeted interventions can contribute to more equitable opportunities and improved quality of life in adulthood.
Reference:
Jaekel, J., Baumann, N., Bartmann, P., & Wolke, D. (2019). General cognitive but not mathematic abilities predict very preterm and healthy term-born adults’ wealth. PLOS ONE, 14(3), e0212789. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0212789
