A recent study published in the open-access journal PLOS ONE has shed light on the long-term impacts of preterm birth on individuals. The research, conducted by Petros Pechlivanoglou of The Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto, Canada, followed over 2.4 million individuals born in Canada between 1990 and 1996 for more than two decades to analyze the socioeconomic effects of preterm birth.
Preterm birth, defined as birth before 37 weeks of gestation, affects approximately 10% of all births worldwide and is a leading cause of neonatal mortality. The study found that individuals born prematurely had, on average, lower employment income, lower rates of university enrollment, and lower educational attainment by the age of 28 compared to those born at full term.
After controlling for factors such as parental demographics, the researchers discovered that preterm-born individuals had an average annual income that was $958 CAD (6%) lower than their full-term counterparts. Additionally, they were 2.13% less likely to be employed, 17% less likely to enroll in university, and 16% less likely to graduate with a university degree.
The impact was even more pronounced for those born at the earliest gestational ages of 24–27 weeks, who experienced a $5,463 CAD (17%) lower annual income and a 45% decrease in rates of university enrollment and graduation. These findings highlight the long-lasting effects of preterm birth on economic and educational outcomes in adulthood.
Pechlivanoglou emphasized the importance of providing long-term support beyond the neonatal period for individuals born prematurely. He suggested that psychological, education, and vocational resources could help mitigate the socioeconomic impacts of preterm birth and ensure equal opportunities for this population to thrive.
The study’s results underscore the need for policymakers and society to recognize and address the socioeconomic implications of preterm birth. By offering ongoing support and resources, we can help individuals born prematurely overcome the challenges they face and achieve their full potential.
For more information on the study, you can access the full article in PLOS ONE titled “Association between preterm birth and economic and educational outcomes in adulthood.”doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0311895
This research was conducted by the Public Library of Science and provides valuable insights into the long-term consequences of preterm birth on individuals’ economic and educational outcomes. It is crucial to raise awareness about these issues and work towards creating a more supportive environment for individuals born prematurely.
