[Article Review] How Very Preterm Birth or Very Low Birth Weight Impacts Intelligence in Adulthood

Impact of Very Preterm Birth and Low Birth Weight on Adult IQ

Research by Eves et al. (2021) examines the long-term cognitive outcomes of individuals born very preterm (VPT) or with very low birth weight (VLBW) compared to those born at term. The study uses a comprehensive meta-analysis of individual participant data (IPD) from multiple cohorts to identify factors contributing to differences in adult IQ.

Background

Individuals born VPT or with VLBW face higher risks of developmental challenges throughout life. Understanding how these early-life conditions affect adult cognitive outcomes can guide interventions aimed at mitigating long-term impacts. This research synthesizes data from studies conducted between 1978 and 1995, including over 2000 participants, to explore these relationships in depth.

Key Insights

• Differences in IQ: Adults born VPT or with VLBW scored on average 12 IQ points lower than those born at term, equating to a difference of 0.78 standard deviations.
• Risk Factors: Lower gestational age, reduced birth weight z-scores, neonatal bronchopulmonary dysplasia, intraventricular hemorrhage, and lower maternal education levels were strongly linked to reduced IQ in adulthood.
• Protective Interventions: Addressing neonatal complications and improving access to maternal education are identified as strategies to enhance cognitive outcomes for individuals born VPT or with VLBW.

Significance

This research highlights the persistent impact of early-life health and social factors on adult cognitive abilities. By identifying modifiable risks, such as neonatal care and maternal education, the study provides actionable insights for improving long-term outcomes for at-risk populations. These findings underscore the value of coordinated efforts across healthcare and education systems.

Future Directions

Further research could expand on this work by exploring the role of additional environmental and genetic factors in shaping cognitive outcomes. Longitudinal studies involving more diverse populations may also provide insights into broader applicability and guide policies aimed at reducing disparities in cognitive development.

Conclusion

The findings of Eves et al. (2021) emphasize the importance of addressing both biological and social determinants in supporting individuals born VPT or with VLBW. Through targeted interventions, it is possible to improve the long-term cognitive potential of these populations, contributing to more equitable outcomes in adulthood.

Reference:
Eves, R., Mendonça, M., Baumann, N., Ni, Y., Darlow, B. A., Horwood, J., Woodward, L. J., Doyle, L. W., Cheong, J., Anderson, P. J., Bartmann, P., Marlow, N., Johnson, S., Kajantie, E., Hovi, P., Nosarti, C., Indredavik, M. S., Evensen, K.-A. I., Räikkönen, K., Heinonen, K., Zeitlin, J., & Wolke, D. (2021). Association of very preterm birth or very low birth weight with intelligence in adulthood: An individual participant data meta-analysis. JAMA Pediatrics, 175(8), e211058. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamapediatrics.2021.1058

[Article Review] Cognitive Abilities, Not Math Skills, Predict Wealth for Preterm Adults

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