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Persistent neurostructural alterations following very preterm birth

Pediatric Research (2026)Cite this article

Very preterm birth (<32 weeks’ gestation) is a significant global health concern. In addition to mortality, the long-term consequences of very preterm birth are substantial and scale with the degree of prematurity. Preterm babies are at heightened risk for long-term neurological impairments, including cerebral palsy, cognitive deficits and sensory impairments. Moreover, various studies have linked the rapid developmental changes occurring in the neonatal brain during weeks 28–34 of gestation with altered brain structure. Even survivors, who do not experience major deficits, may still exhibit learning difficulties, social behavioral problems, motor deficits and communication challenges that can persist into school age.

The global rate of preterm birth is ~9%, with very preterm births accounting for a subset of this statistic, estimated to be around 0.5% to 2% of births.1 In high-income countries in particular, the prevalence of very preterm births has increased significantly.

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Funding

EGD and CL receive funding through the Canada Research Chairs Program.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Applied Psychology, Faculty of Education, Western University, London, Canada

    Emma G. Duerden

  2. Institute for Neuroscience, Western University, London, Canada

    Emma G. Duerden

  3. Paediatrics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Canada

    Emma G. Duerden

  4. Department of Pediatrics, Department of Radiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada

    Catherine Lebel

Authors
  1. Emma G. Duerden
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  2. Catherine Lebel
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Correspondence to Emma G. Duerden.

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Duerden, E.G., Lebel, C. Persistent neurostructural alterations following very preterm birth. Pediatr Res (2026). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41390-026-04817-8

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