Impact of Preterm Birth on Feeding and Growth Patterns at 3 to 4 Years Old.

INTRODUCTION

Feeding difficulties during childhood are one of the most frequent problems in children born prematurely. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of preterm birth (PTB) on the feeding pattern at 3 to 4 years of age.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study on 89 PTB children matched by date of birth and sex with 178 children born full term (FTB). At 3 to 4 years of age, feeding behaviors and parental coping were measured with the Behavioral Pediatrics Feeding Assessment Scale.

RESULTS

Total 6.7% of PTB and 7.9% of FTB children presented relevant feeding disorders (p = .742). Parental coping was similar between groups, with an altered pattern in 20.2% of PTB and 19.1% of FTB children (p = .827). No differences were found in the growth patterns.

DISCUSSION: The feeding and growth patterns of PTB children was comparable to that of their FTB peers at 3 to 4 years of age.