Degree
Master of Science
Program
Epidemiology and Biostatistics
Abstract
Birth weight is a strong predictor of neonatal health outcomes. The majority of literature has focused on those infants born SGA. Infants born LGA have been shown to be at higher risk of immediate obstetrical complications and metabolic deficits, yet less research has focused on subsequent development. This study aims to investigate whether LGA is associated with developmental attainment and to examine the attribution of upstream factors and variables along the causal pathway. Data from the NLSCY was used. LGA was defined as a BW >90th percentile. Outcomes were poor verbal ability (scoring <15th percentile on the PPVT-R) and externalizing behaviour problems (scoring >90th percentile on any externalizing behavioural scale). A DAG guided analyses. Multivariable logistic regression was used, mediation and interaction was assessed and all analyses were stratified by sex. LGA was not associated with developmental attainment for males or females. There was no evidence supporting mediation or an interaction.
Recommended Citation
Frank, Cairina E., "Infants born large for gestational age and developmental attainment in early childhood" (2016). Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository. 3781.
https://ir.lib.uwo.ca/etd/3781