Long-term study from Warwick: Premature babies have good chances of a fulfilling adult life

Results in Detail

At the same time, it became clear that not all those affected go through adult life without limitations. About one in five study participants who were born before the 32nd week of pregnancy or with a birth weight of less than 1,500 grams have problems as adults - this affects money, friendships, and partnerships. Overall, 18 percent of this group performed poorly in the corresponding areas - compared with only 1.5 percent among those born at term.

Study director Dieter Wolke, who led the research at the University of Warwick and also conducted research in Munich for a long time, pointed to this minority: „Es gibt jedoch eine beträchtliche Minderheit, die nach wie vor mit echten Schwierigkeiten zu kämpfen hat. Und diese Menschen berichten uns, dass ihr Leben schwer und nicht besonders erfüllend sei."

Background: Neurological Development

The study also refers to earlier findings according to which IQ decreases by 2.3 points per week before the 33rd week of pregnancy. Thanks to modern medical possibilities, premature babies now have significantly higher chances of survival than before - but quality of life in adulthood has so far been less well researched.

Classification for Germany

Wolke also placed the results in a health policy context. The care of premature babies in Germany is generally good, although it lags behind internationally, for example behind Finland. The results are certainly transferable to Germany as a whole, Wolke said. The medical facilities and the organization of newborn care are comparable everywhere in Germany.

Researchers' Conclusion

The researchers also formulated a political message: „Die Gesellschaft könne von einem noch stärkeren Fokus auf geistige Entwicklung im frühkindlichen Stadium profitieren", erklären die Forschenden. In doing so, they spoke out in favor of more targeted support in the first years of life, during which fundamental abilities develop.

Overall, the study thus provides a nuanced picture: The majority of former premature babies cope well, but some have considerable difficulties in everyday life. The study makes clear that medical care alone is not sufficient - in addition, long-term support is needed in order to absorb developmental risks at an early stage.

For families and professionals, this means: There is cause for optimism, but also clear indications of which group needs special attention. The finding that people born very early can today lead a largely normal adult life is a direct consequence of improved neonatology over the past decades.