Abstract

Introduction: Recent studies show that moderately and late preterm infants (MLI) (Gestational age (GA) 32 to 366), are in high risk for delayed psychomotor development (PMD) and learning disabilities. Objective: To compare PMD between MLI and full term infants (FTI) and to analyze associated perinatal risk factors. Methodology: 131 MLI and 119 FTI were recruited between May 2008 and April 2011 in a private health center in Santiago, Chile. Both groups were compared according to age, gender and socio-economic level. At the ages of 8, 18 and 30 months the children were evaluated by means of the Bayley III Scale for Infantile Deve- lopment 3rd edition (BAYLEY-III). PMD was compared in both groups and multiple lineal regression analysis was performed. Results: MLI showed a significantly lower development coefficient, but it matched the FTI when corrected by GA, (99 ± 10.4 versus 100.8 ± 9.9). Even with corrected GA, the cognitive performance was lower (98 ± 10.4 vs 103.1 ± 11.4 p < 0.05). Multiple lineal regressions showed that GA and gender were associated with lower cognitive development. Conclusion: Cognitive performance of MLI was below that of FTI. This increases the need to have especial standards of care and stimulation for these children.