Preterm birth, fetal growth restriction and early postnatal body mass index normalisation predict adult anthropometry

Abstract

Aim This study assessed the long-term impact of prematurity and fetal growth restriction on adult anthropometric and metabolic outcomes.

Methods In this retrospective cohort study at the University Medical Center Mainz, Germany, adults aged 18–52 years born between 1969 and 2002 were examined between 2019 and 2021. Participants were classified by gestational age and birth weight percentiles as small (SGA), appropriate (AGA), or large for gestational age (LGA). Adult anthropometric and metabolic parameters were analysed using multivariable regression models in relation to gestational age, fetal growth, and early postnatal BMI normalisation.

Results Adults born preterm were shorter, lighter and had smaller head circumferences in adulthood than those born at term. Moderately to severely SGA individuals were shorter and lighter and had smaller head circumferences and lower BMI. Participants born LGA were taller and heavier than individuals born AGA. Early postnatal BMI normalisation was associated with improved adult anthropometry in preterm SGA participants only. No significant associations were observed between gestational age or birth weight groups and metabolic outcomes, including metabolic syndrome, hypertension, cholesterol, glucose and triglycerides.

Conclusion Prematurity and fetal growth restriction were linked to differences in adult anthropometry, whereas early postnatal BMI normalisation appeared beneficial in preterm SGA individuals.