Growth patterns and their implications for preterm infants in a culture of rapid modernization

This prospective longitudinal study explored the growth patterns of preterm infants and the implications of rearing them in an advancing culture. The study measured the weight, length, and head circumference of 343 Korean preterm infants over 12 months corrected age. Data were analyzed using a generalized estimation equation for growth patterns of preterm infants by the degree of prematurity (mild, moderate, or severe). Results showed that the early ‘catch-up phenomenon’, accelerated growth rate, occurred around 11 months corrected age, although the mild preterm group weighed less, was shorter, and had a smaller head circumference than the moderate and severe preterm groups. This may reflect the Asian culture’s preference for big babies and draws special attention to the influence of cultural values and childrearing practices in the growth of preterm infants. Pediatric nurses should be alert to accelerated growth in preterm infants in societies in cultural transition.