J Nutr Health.  2022 Oct;55(5):572-586. 10.4163/jnh.2022.55.5.572.

Factors associated with the growth of preterm infants

• Jeon J
• Seo WH
• Chung SJ

• KMID: 2534858
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4163/jnh.2022.55.5.572

Abstract

Purpose
This study examined the factors that may affect the growth status of preterm infants.
Methods
This study included 91 preterm infants born at <37 weeks of gestation (22.9–36.9 weeks of gestation), including 48 (52.7%) males and 43 (47.3%) females. Diet-related data were collected through parental questionnaires, and growth-related data, such as height and weight, were collected through the hospital medical records.
Results
No significant difference in weight and growth was observed between early and late preterm infants. On the other hand, smaller averages of all weight z-score (recent weight at 40 weeks of gestation) included lower birth weight, height, and head circumference. On the other hand, infants’ birth weight, height, and head circumference in the weight z-score of <0 (<50% in the age-weight growth chart) was smaller than those in the weight z-score of ≥0. Furthermore, neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) hospitalization period and NICU discharge were shorter with growth cessation age in weight z-score of <0. The weight growth velocity was associated with gestational age, birth weight, and medical treatment in the NICU. Thus, parents of preterm infants with low growth rates prefer more community care services for their children.
Conclusion
Birth weight, age of preterm infants, and medical treatment in the NICU were factors related to early birth weight growth. Following NICU discharge, poor intake and intake issues were associated with poor growth after 40 weeks of gestation. Therefore, monitoring the growth of preterm infants requires continuous active involvement and supports for growth-promoting factors after NICU discharge.

Keyword

infant; premature; infant; low birth weight; infant health; growth disorders; infant nutrition disorders