Primal Health Databank: Study
| Entry No: | 0097 |
| Title: | Birth weight at term and lung function in adolescence: no evidence for a programmed effect |
| Author(s): | Matthes JWA, Lewis PA, et al. |
| Reference: | Arch Dis in Childhood 1995; 73: 231-4 |
| Place of Study: | Wales |
| Abstract: | 164 subjects born between 1975 and 1977 who had low birth weight (less than 2500g) were compared with 164 subjects whose birth weight was normal (3000-3800g). The pairs were matched for birth order, sex, place of birth, date of birth and gestational age. Lung function was measured using a portable spirometer (mean age 15.7 years). The results showed that low birth weight at term is not associated with reduced lung function in adolescence. |
| Keyword(s): | birth order, birth weight, lung function |
| Discussion: | This study is important because cases and controls were matched not only for sex, hospital of delivery, date of birth, length of gestation, but also for birth order. This study contradicts all the results of studies that did not take into account birth order. Birth order is the best known single factor influencing birth weight. For example according to a British calculation the average difference in birth weight between first born and second born children is 138 grams. (see Odent M., Tsujino J., Studies exploring health in relation to intrauterine life should look at birth order, BMJ 1997; 314:1416). This study should be read alongside studies 0090 and 0087. |
| See Also: | No related entries mentioned for this entry |
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