Cognitive trajectories from infancy to early adulthood following birth before 26 weeks of gestation: a prospective, population-based cohort study

What is already known on this topic?

  • The most common neurologic impairment in children born extremely preterm is in cognitive function.
  • Cognitive development has been well described in infancy and early childhood but the trajectory into early adulthood is unknown.

What this study adds?

  • Impaired cognitive function evident in infancy persists into early adulthood among individuals born extremely preterm, with no evidence of substantial recovery or deterioration.
  • Cognitive test scores in infancy and early childhood reflect early adult outcomes.
  • Male sex and moderate/severe neonatal brain injury has an adverse effect on cognitive trajectories in individuals born extremely preterm.

PhD Fellowship Opportunities

PhD Studentship opportunities available! This PhD student will be working with Professor Dieter Wolke in the Research of Children and Adults born Preterm (RECAP) project. (www.recap-preterm.eu). This PhD student will be working in collaboration with partners around Europe and beyond to combine data to conduct analysis on the mental health, neuro-cognitive, socio-emotional functioning and economic adult outcomes…

Premature birth and circadian preference in young adulthood: evidence from two birth cohorts

A preference for eveningness (being a “night owl”) and preterm birth (<37 weeks of gestation) are associated with similar adversities, such as elevated blood pressure, impaired glucose regulation, poorer physical fitness, and lower mood. Yet, it remains unclear if and how preterm birth is associated with circadian preference. The aim of this study was to assess this association across the whole gestation range, using both objective and subjective measurements of circadian preference.