Adults Born Prematurely Face Increased Blood Pressure and Anxiety

A study led by the University of Rhode Island has linked preterm birth with long-term medical risks extending to age 35, as reported in their cohort study. Preterm birth affects around one in ten U.S. infants yearly, with a significant improvement in survival rates since the 1980s. Nevertheless, adult healthcare often overlooks birth history and much of our understanding of long-term outcomes for those born preterm comes from international studies. In the published research titled "Psychological and Physical Health of a Preterm Birth Cohort at Age 35 Years," featured in JAMA Network Open, scientists conducted a longitudinal cohort study to assess how early life medical risks impact adult psychological and physiological health outcomes. JAMA Network Open This study followed 213 individuals, recruited originally from a Level III neonatal intensive care unit in New England between 1985 and 1989, through 2024. The sample included both preterm (under 1,850 g) and full-term adults. Data collection involved clinical visits and at-home surveys that assessed biospecimens, imaging, and psychological self-reports. Medical risk was quantified from birth to age 12 utilizing a composite index encompassing birth weight, gestational age, oxygen therapy duration, and neurological and medical health status across multiple timepoints. At age 35, outcomes included blood pressure, lipid levels, body composition via DEXA scan, and psychological function assessed via ASEBA Adult Self-Report. Each increment of one point in early life medical risk correlated with a 7-point elevation in systolic blood pressure, a 13 mg/dL decrease in HDL cholesterol, and a 54 mg/dL increase in triglycerides. Increased abdominal fat accumulation and decreased bone mineral density were also observed, along with higher internalizing problems like anxiety and depression. No significant associations existed for diastolic blood pressure, LDL cholesterol, hemoglobin A1c, or inflammatory markers. Socioeconomic status (SES) and social protection did not significantly alter these outcomes, though higher SES was linked to lower IL-6 levels. Researchers assert that preterm birth and early medical complication severity are tied to lifelong health consequences, including mental health and cardiometabolic vulnerabilities. Currently, there are no clinical guidelines for adults born prematurely. As this population ages, long-term monitoring and customized preventive healthcare may be essential in addressing their unique needs. Note: This article was composed by Justin Jackson, edited by Sadie Harley, fact-checked and reviewed by Robert Egan—our independent science journalism is possible thanks to readers like you. Please consider supporting our work with a donation (especially monthly). In return for your support, you'll receive an ad-free account.