Determinants of growth parameters at 12-month corrected age among very preterm infants in China: a retrospective cohort study
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By
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Wenting Zheng
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Youjiong Wang
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Jinfeng Liu
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Lei Ye
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Yuanyuan Zhang
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Jie Cao
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Lijin Zhao
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July 6, 2026
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Clinical Scorecard: Factors Influencing Growth Metrics at 12-Month Corrected Age in Very Preterm Infants in China: A Retrospective Cohort Analysis
At a Glance
| Category | Detail |
|---|
| Condition | Very Preterm Infants (VPI) |
| Key Mechanisms | Maternal mental health, pregnancy complications, and infant-specific risk factors influence growth outcomes. |
| Target Population | Very preterm infants born at 28-32 weeks of gestation. |
| Care Setting | Tertiary maternity and neonatal hospital |
Key Highlights
- Maternal postnatal depression is a significant risk factor for poor growth outcomes.
- Gestational diabetes mellitus and preeclampsia in mothers negatively impact infant growth.
- Exclusive breastfeeding is associated with better growth metrics in VPI.
Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
- Assess maternal mental health and pregnancy complications during prenatal care.
Management
- Implement targeted interventions for maternal mental health and nutrition.
Monitoring & Follow-up
- Regularly monitor growth metrics (weight, length, head circumference) in VPI up to 12 months CA.
Risks
- Identify and address risks such as maternal depression and congenital heart diseases in infants.
Patient & Prescribing Data
223 very preterm infants admitted to a tertiary hospital.
Interventions should focus on maternal health and infant-specific factors to improve growth.
Clinical Best Practices
- Encourage exclusive breastfeeding for improved growth outcomes.
- Monitor for signs of maternal depression and provide support as needed.
- Address pregnancy complications proactively to mitigate risks to infant growth.
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