ADHD Higher Probability For Premature Babies

Premature babies born at 34-36 weeks are 70% more likely to have ADHD when they are older, according to researchers in Denmark. If the baby is born before 34 weeks the probability of having ADHD increases by 300% (Data from the Danish National Register).

The study involving over 30,000 children found a link between children having a higher risk of ADHD if they are born under weight, than those born with normal weight.

The study found that those babies being born at full-term and weighing between 1.5 - 2.5 kilos (3lb 3oz to 5lb 5oz) were in fact 90% more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD when they are older, compared to those babies which were full-term and born at normal weight. With full-term babies which weighed 1.6 - 5 kilos (5lb 6oz to 6lb 6oz) having a 50% higher risk of getting ADHD.

Statistics of premature births in the United States shows that 8% of babies are born under weight, with 1.5% being of very low birth weight. Recent studies are revealing that the number of premature births is increasing at an alarming rate in the developed world.

Social and economic factors are to blame say many researchers, as many mothers are for financial reasons having to work late into their pregnancy. Combined with the fact, more and more women are under increasing levels of stress day to day.

There is mounting concern in the UK, as a report on the statistics of premature births taken from ten European countries about to be published will place the UK at the top of the list. Prof David Field, of the University of Leicester, said: "We are pretty sure that the rate of premature delivery in the UK compared with other countries in Europe is very high and it is on the increase. With the main increase of premature babies occurring at the 27- to 32-week gestation group. Researchers are saying there are a number of factors which may be influencing this increase.

A major concern is that many women do not have the choice to finish work early and have to continue working late into the pregnancy. This longer working period places considerable stress, on both the mother and unborn child.

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