- Late preterm birth linked to higher emotional symptoms, peer problems, total difficulty scores and lower prosocial behaviour in children aged 3 to 5 years.
- Study compared late preterm, early term and term groups using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, adjusting for sex, economic status and fetal growth restriction.
- Healthcare providers should recognise and address mental health challenges in children born late preterm.
Pediatr Int. 2026 Jan-Dec;68(1):e70442. doi: 10.1111/ped.70442.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: In this study, we aimed to assess the mental health outcomes of children born late preterm and early term compared with children born at term, using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ).
METHODS: Data from the Formation of Exercise Habits Project from Early Childhood were analyzed. This project assessed children’s physical fitness, athletic ability, and lifestyle. Collected data included gestational age at birth, birth weight, sex, age at questionnaire administration, and SDQ scores. Participants aged 3-5 years were divided into late preterm, early term, and term groups. SDQ scores were compared across groups, accounting for sex, economic status, and fetal growth restriction.
RESULTS: Of the 2200 participants, 151 were born late preterm and 748 were born early term. Late preterm birth was significantly associated with higher emotional symptoms, peer problems, and total difficulty scores, as well as lower prosocial behavior scores.
CONCLUSIONS: Late preterm birth is associated with mental health outcomes in children. Healthcare providers should recognize and address mental health challenges in this population.
PMID:42186396 | DOI:10.1111/ped.70442
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