Abstract
In this narrative review, we report on adult outcomes after very (before 32 weeks
of gestation [wGA]) and extremely (before 28 wGA) preterm birth, with a focus on neuromotor
function, neurosensory impairment, general cognitive abilities, executive function,
and attentional abilities, all of which are important for academic progress, peer
relationships, and participation. Longitudinal development from childhood to adulthood
is described. Preterm born individuals have a higher risk for impairment of general
cognitive abilities, executive function, attention, and neuromotor abilities well
into adulthood, with, however, considerable variability in outcomes. Differences between
individuals born preterm and their term born peers persist. Long-term outcomes of
general cognitive ability can be predicted with some degree of certainty from childhood
assessments: those who perform poor on early childhood age assessments very likely
will not catch up, whereas those who perform within the normal range on early assessments
sometimes accelerate their development relative to term born peers. This appears similar
for executive function and attention, although data on trajectories for these functions
are somewhat inconsistent. In adulthood, some studies describe poorer educational
outcomes, employment, independent living, and/or economic situation compared with
term born individuals; however, large proportion of those born preterm report similar
self-perceived quality of life.
Keywords
preterm birth - neuromotor - cognitive - executive function - adulthood - longitudinal
development
