Neurodevelopment and brain maturation in late preterm children: insights from the adolescent brain cognitive development (ABCD) study - Scorecard - MDSpire

Brain Development and Neurocognitive Progression in Late Preterm Children: Findings from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development Study

  • By

  • Ryoko Yoshinare

  • Masatoshi Yamashita

  • Yoshifumi Mizuno

  • Akemi Tomoda

  • July 20, 2026

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Clinical Scorecard: Brain Development and Neurocognitive Progression in Late Preterm Children: Findings from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development Study

At a Glance

CategoryDetail
ConditionLate Preterm Birth
Key MechanismsNeurodevelopmental outcomes, neuroimaging differences, cognitive function
Target PopulationChildren born late preterm (34-36 weeks gestation)
Care SettingLongitudinal cohort study

Key Highlights

  • Late preterm children show subtle neuroimaging differences compared to full-term children.
  • No broad differences in behavioral and emotional problems or cognitive outcomes were found.
  • Significant group effects observed in structural MRI and DTI metrics.
  • Late preterm birth is associated with higher risks of neurodevelopmental disorders.
  • Longitudinal analysis utilized mixed-effects models to evaluate outcomes.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

  • Assess neurodevelopmental outcomes in late preterm children.

Management

  • Monitor for behavioral and cognitive difficulties in late preterm children.

Monitoring & Follow-up

  • Utilize neuroimaging techniques to evaluate brain development.

Risks

  • Late preterm children are at higher risk for autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Patient & Prescribing Data

Children aged 9-11 years born late preterm

Focus on early identification and intervention for developmental delays.

Clinical Best Practices

  • Implement regular developmental assessments for late preterm children.
  • Encourage early intervention strategies for identified cognitive and behavioral issues.

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