Psychological and Physical Health of a Preterm Birth Cohort at Age 35 Years

How do early life medical risk factors for individuals born preterm compare with those born full-term in projecting adult psychological and physiological trajectories?In this cohort study using a longitudinal follow-up of a US birth cohort at age 35 years, greater early life medical risk severity was significantly associated with higher internalizing mental health issues, blood pressure, triglycerides, and body fat distribution, along with lower high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and bone density.These results suggest that as the preterm-born population ages, it is increasingly important to understand their specific health needs to optimize health outcomes and health care resources.

Corresponding Author: Amy L. D’Agata, PhD, RN, College of Nursing, University of Rhode Island, 350 Eddy St, Providence, RI 02903 (amydagata@uri.edu).

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