Small differences in birth timing tied to test scores

Genevra Pittman:

Researchers have known that babies born premature are at risk for slowed brain development, but a new study suggests that even among those considered "normal term" - between 37 and 41 weeks - a couple of extra weeks in the womb might make a difference.

Kids born on the shorter end of that range scored lower on math and reading tests as eight-year-olds than those born later - but the differences were small and "shouldn't be alarming," one researcher who wasn't part of the study team said.

"Certainly the vast majority of 37-weekers and 41-weekers would end up developing typically," said Dr. Kimberly Noble, the lead author on the new study from Columbia University Medical Center and New York-Presbyterian Hospital in New York.

Still, she said, until more research is done, "We would urge caution to both parents and physicians when considering early elective delivery."

Posted by Jim Zellmer at July 7, 2012 2:14 AM
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