Cognitive Functions and Behavioral Outcomes of Very Low Birth Weight Neonates in Middle Childhood.

Objective: To assess the cognitive and behavioral outcomes of very low birth weight (VLBW) as compared to normal birth weight (NBW) neonates in middle childhood.

Methods: In this observational study, the first 50 VLBW (≤ 1250 g) children from an original cohort of 2009-2011, who agreed to participate, and 50 age and sex-matched NBW children were assessed at 6-11 years age. Cognitive function, behavior, psychopathology, self-concept, adjustment and memory parameters were assessed by a certified psychologist using Malin's Intelligence Scale for Indian Children (MISIC), Childhood Psychopathology Measurement Schedule, Children's Self-concept Scale, Preadolescent Adjustment Inventory, and PGI Memory Scale for Children (PGIMC), respectively.

Results: Compared to NBW, the VLBW children had significantly lower Verbal Intelligence Quotient (IQ) (P = 0.008), Performance IQ (P < 0.001), and Full-Scale IQ (FSIQ) (P < 0.001). VLBW cohort had significantly lower scores in remote memory (P < 0.001), mental balance (P = 0.001), attention (P = 0.005), visual retention (P < 0.001), and recognition (P = 0.003). VLBW cohort exhibited significantly higher scores on psychopathology (P = 0.036), anxiety (P = 0.034), significantly lower self-concept (P < 0.001) and adjustment scores (P < 0.001) than NBW.

Conclusions: VLBW children have significant cognitive, behavioral and adjustment issues as compared to NBW children.