Taiwan Preterm Infant Database: Analysis and Comparison of Birth Conditions and Exploration of Prognostic Factors

Taiwan Preterm Infant Database: Analysis and Comparison of Birth Conditions and Exploration of Prognostic Factors

The purpose of this study is to conduct a long-term follow-up of preterm infants with different birth conditions, aiming to provide data and resources for future care and to identify predictive and influencing factors related to their functional development over time. It is hypothesized that (1) preterm infants with varying birth conditions, such as birth weight and gestational age, will exhibit different developmental outcomes, and that the establishment of a Taiwan-specific preterm infant database is essential due to the lack of comprehensive local data and ethnic variations in gestational patterns; and (2) neonatal factors, including gestational age, birth weight, and postnatal complications (e.g., pneumonia, seizures, hypoxia), serve as potential risk factors influencing later developmental trajectories.

This study uses Taiwan's Preterm Infant Database to analyze gestational age, birth conditions, and long-term developmental outcomes in preterm infants. Participants are classified by gestational age and birth weight into subgroups, with demographic, clinical, and follow-up data (e.g., Bayley-III, neurodevelopmental exams, rehabilitation records) systematically collected. All data are de-identified, coded, and validated, with confidentiality maintained under IRB oversight. Statistical methods include ANOVA, chi-square, Kruskal-Wallis, repeated-measures ANOVA, and multiple regression models to identify predictive and risk factors. Standardized procedures govern data collection, management, and analysis, with strategies to address missing or inconsistent values. This framework ensures rigor, supports predictive modeling, and provides clinically relevant insights to guide early intervention and healthcare strategies.

Preterm Cases (Experimental Group)

Inclusion:

• Born <37 weeks.
• Age 0-3 years.
• Stable condition with regular outpatient follow-up, medication, and rehabilitation.

Exclusion:

• Acute illness (e.g., infection).
• Conditions affecting neurodevelopment (e.g., cerebral palsy, severe complications, pneumonia, traumatic brain injury).
• Chromosomal abnormalities.

Full-term Cases (Control Group)

Inclusion:

• Born at full term.
• Age 0-3 years.
• No disease affecting neurodevelopment.
• Caregiver consent and cooperation.

Exclusion:

• Medical diagnoses affecting neurodevelopment (e.g., traumatic brain injury).
• Neurodevelopmental disorders.
• Sensory disorders.
• Chromosomal abnormalities.