Growth and development of high risk graduates till one year from a rural neonatal intensive care unit in south India

Abstract

Background: The studies based on the problems faced by high risk nursery graduates in growth and developments from a rural area are limited. Appropriate follow up program would help in early interventions. Objective : The objective was to study the outcome of growth and development till one year of age of high risk infants discharged from a secondary level neonatal intensive care unit. Methodology: A prospective cohort study was conducted by Department of Pediatrics of Dr SMCSI Medical College for a period of 2 years in 47 high risk babies discharged from the neonatal intensive care unit. Physical parameter like weight, length and head circumference was recorded after delivery and at 4^th,8^th and 12 months. Assessment of tone and development was done at 4, 8 and 12 months. Results: Out of the 47 high risk babies, 29 were preterm The mean weight gain was more in preterms which was nonsignificant but they had significant mean length gain. The increments in head circumference and tone abnormalities were more in preterms. Mean Development Quotient (DQ) in term and low birth weight infants were lower. Conclusions: Preterm had more rate of growth in all anthropometric measurements and a higher development quotient. An appropriate follow-up is a must in the early detection of growth failure and neurodisability to execute an effective early stimulation program.