Adverse Skeletal Muscle Adaptations in Individuals Born Preterm—A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Infants born preterm face an increased risk of deleterious effects on lung and brain health that can significantly alter long-term function and quality of life and even lead to death. Moreover, preterm birth is also associated with a heightened risk of diabetes and obesity later in life, leading to an increased risk of all-cause mortality in young adults born prematurely. While these preterm-birth-related conditions have been well characterized, less is known about the long-term effects of preterm birth on skeletal muscle health and, specifically, an individual’s skeletal muscle hypertrophic potential later in life. In this review, we discuss how a confluence of potentially interrelated and self-perpetuating elements associated with preterm birth might converge on anabolic and catabolic pathways to ultimately blunt skeletal muscle hypertrophy, identifying critical areas for future research.

Outcomes and Morbidities in Low-Birth-Weight Neonates: A Retrospective Study From Western India

“…At the age of one year, 18 out of 131 (13.7%) babies were below the third percentile for weight, 10 out of 131 (7.7%) were below the third percentile for height, and 11 out of 131 (8.3%) had a head circumference below the third percentile. These results are in line with earlier research that found LBW newborns had a higher chance of developmental delays and growth impairment [ 10 , 11 ].…”

“…Despite advancements in neonatal care, LBW remains a significant contributor to infant mortality and morbidity in the country, accounting for 60-80% of all neonatal deaths nationwide [ 8 , 9 ]. Furthermore, survivors of LBW often face long-term consequences such as stunting, cognitive and neurodevelopmental delays, and an increased risk of developing chronic conditions later in life [ 10 , 11 ].…”