Abstract
Over the last 50 years in the United States a rising preterm birth rate, a progressive decrease in preterm mortality, and a lowering of the limit of viability have made preterm birth a significant public health problem. Neuromaturation, the functional development of the central nervous system (CNS), is a dynamic process that promotes and shapes CNS structural development. This article reviews preterm outcomes, recognizing that multiple factors influence neuromaturation and lead to a range of neurodevelopmental disabilities, dysfunctions, and altered CNS processing. Ways to protect preterm infants and support their growth and development in and beyond intensive care are examined.
Original language | English (US) |
---|---|
Pages (from-to) | 441-454 |
Number of pages | 14 |
Journal | Clinics in Perinatology |
Volume | 38 |
Issue number | 3 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Sep 1 2011 |
Keywords
- Cerebral palsy
- Disability
- Infant
- Intellectual
- Learning disabilities
- Neonatal mortality
- Premature
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Pediatrics, Perinatology, and Child Health
- Obstetrics and Gynecology