Pre-term babies may struggle economically in life as they tend to have lesser wealth than their full-term counterparts, suggests a new UK study.
In a study that's recently published in Psychological Science, researchers have discovered the link between pre-term birth and poor academic performance, especially in math. This may then eventually lead to poorer economic and social status outcome by the time they were already late adults.
To proceed with the study, the researchers relied on the information provided by two large studies, namely, the British Cohort Study and the National Child Development Study, which included children who were born in Scotland, England, and Wales.
The team was particularly looking for children who were born in the same week, although at different periods: 1958 for National Child Development Study and 1970 for British Cohort Study.
They also considered participants who were delivered during 28 to 42 weeks based on gestational age and whose wealth data can be obtained by the time they were already 42 years old. Overall, the recent study obtained more than 12,000 people.
Many factors were then considered to assess the participants' wealth, including income, employment, and their respective financial perception. Their academic abilities were also measured.
After analyzing all the data, they learned that when pre-term children reach the age of 42, they will have lesser income than full-term ones. Further, they may have a less stable job and may not have owned a home yet. These results were consistent in both of the previous studies and even after other factors that can affect wealth are taken into consideration.
Meanwhile, pre-term children also did poorly in academics, especially in math. The researchers also found a link, though not strong, between poor math abilities and wealth later in life.
The study may somehow cite the insufficient capability of psychologists and teachers to provide the special needs pre-term children they have. Equipping themselves properly can increase the chances of success among preemies.